The Traffic

Alleged $7.2bn Fraud: EFCC Set To Invite Ex-NNPCL Boss Kyari  

Yakubu Haruna Yakubu 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is gearing up to invite former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, for questioning over a $7.2 billion refineries' turnaround maintenance probe. Investigations into NNPCL's activities during Kyari's tenure have reached an advanced stage, particularly after some of his close associates were arrested and interrogated about fund management for refinery maintenance.¹

*Key Developments:*

- *Kyari's Accounts Frozen*: A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the temporary freezing of four bank accounts linked to Kyari, with over ₦661 million suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.
- *EFCC's Investigation*: The anti-graft agency has been probing Kyari's associates and has obtained documents on how funds meant for refinery repairs were managed.
- *Watchlist*: Kyari has been placed on the EFCC's watchlist, and his movements are being tracked, indicating the commission's seriousness in pursuing the case.²

*Allegations:*

- *Conspiracy and Money Laundering*: Kyari is accused of using family members as fronts to manage accounts receiving suspicious inflows from NNPCL and oil companies.
- *Contractor Fraud*: The EFCC is investigating claims of massive kickbacks and contractor fraud related to refinery maintenance.³

The case highlights concerns about financial oversight in Nigeria's oil sector and could have significant implications for Kyari and other officials involved.