Former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited
(NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari has denied reports that he is
being held by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Kyari’s denial comes after reports emerged that he had
been arrested over alleged mismanagement of billions of naira in the company.
In a statement, posted on X on Saturday night Kyari
described the reports as false.
He said the reports have raised concerns from
relatives and associates, who have been calling him to confirm his whereabouts.
“This is clear mischief and a calculated attempt by
the newspaper and its sponsors to achieve a desired outcome, which only them
know,” he said, referring to an unnamed publication.
Kyari clarified that he is currently on a
well-deserved rest following the dissolution of the company’s management and
board.
“It should be stated that having served the NNPC and
the NNPCL for 34 years, and 17 of those in management roles and especially the
last 5 years and 9 months, I had little time for leave of even two weeks. So, I
am thankful for the opportunity to serve under their Excellencies Presidents
Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he stated.
The ex-NNPCL boss also raised concern over
misinformation, saying unfounded reports could harm national interests.
“It is important to state that the resort to
disinformation does not serve anyone’s purpose, the NNPCL or the country in
General, as it has the potential to send the wrong signals to investors and the
international community,” he warned.
Therefore, he advised the media to exercise restraint
and responsibility, stressing the need for proper verification before
publishing sensitive claims.
“It is in this regard that I urge the media to be
circumspect and avoid being stampeded into misleading the public on unverified
stories or matters that are subject of further validation by relevant
organizations,” Kyari advised.
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