Lawyers Group Defends Mele Kyari, Calls EFCC Probe a “Smear Campaign”
Legal Professionals Rally Behind Former NNPCL Chief
A coalition of legal experts under the banner Lawyers in Defence of Democracy has come to the defense of former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari, labeling the ongoing Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigation as politically motivated.
Transparency and Achievements Highlighted
Speaking through Deputy National Coordinator Barrister Ndu Edede, the group praised Kyari’s tenure (2019-2025) as one of the most transparent in NNPCL’s history. They emphasized his role in implementing the Petroleum Industry Act and achieving significant milestones:
- Increased oil production to approximately 2 million barrels per day
- Revitalization of moribund refineries
- Successful integration of the Dangote Refinery project
EFCC Investigation Details
The EFCC’s investigation, initiated through an April 28, 2025 letter (Reference: CR:3000/EFCC/ABJ/HQ/SDC.2/NNPC/VOL.1/698), targets 14 former NNPCL officials including Kyari and Abubakar Lawal Yar’Adua. The probe focuses on alleged abuse of office and fund misappropriation.
Group Warns Against Witch Hunt
The legal professionals cautioned against what they describe as an “orchestrated campaign” to tarnish Kyari’s legacy. Edede quoted Kyari: “He served Nigeria with the fear of God and is willing to account for his stewardship,” characterizing this as evidence of transparency.
Fuel Subsidy Reform Cited
The group highlighted Kyari’s pivotal role in implementing the fuel subsidy removal policy, which they argue has redirected funds to critical national development projects.
Call for Due Process
Lawyers in Defence of Democracy urged the EFCC to exercise caution, warning that unfair treatment could demoralize public servants and deter future reform-minded leadership in Nigeria’s crucial oil sector.
Full credit to the original publisher: The Guardian