Lawyers Demand Probe Into NNPCL’s Mele Kyari Over $4 Billion Refineries Spending
Group Calls for Judicial Inquiry Into Former NNPCL CEO’s Tenure
ABUJA – A coalition of lawyers under the banner of Guardian of Democracy and Rule of Law has called for a judicial commission of inquiry into the tenure of former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kolo Kyari.
The group staged a protest at the office of Finance Minister Wale Edun on Monday, April 28, 2025, where they submitted a formal petition demanding accountability in Nigeria’s petroleum sector management.
Key Allegations Against Kyari
- Alleged monumental corruption during Kyari’s leadership
- Questionable spending of over $4 billion on refinery repairs
- Suspected tax evasion and fraudulent declarations
- Misappropriation of public funds
In a statement by group leader Barrister Benjamin Theophilus, the lawyers claimed the refinery rehabilitation costs were inflated, noting that a private sector consortium had proposed similar repairs for about $1 billion.
Demands for Comprehensive Investigation
The protesters emphasized their non-negotiable demand for a Judicial Commission of Inquiry into NNPCL’s affairs over the past five years. They proposed the commission should include:
- Former Supreme Court justices
- Nigerians with impeccable character
The petition highlighted several areas of concern including:
- Alleged fraudulent allocation of crude oil proceeds
- Misappropriation in the AKK Gas Pipeline Project
- Fuel subsidy fraud allegations
- Value review for NNPCL’s crude-backed loans
Previous Petitions Against Kyari
This recent action follows earlier petitions to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) calling for Kyari’s investigation. Civil society groups have also demanded:
- Forensic audit of all payments to consultants and contractors
- Prosecution of Kyari over alleged financial irregularities
Over 5,000 protesters under the Concerned Citizens Against Corruption banner previously stormed the Ministry of Justice, questioning a $2 billion debt allegedly owed to Matrix Energy.
The growing calls for accountability reflect increasing public scrutiny of Nigeria’s petroleum sector management and expenditure.
Source: Legit.ng