The Nigerian Senate has clarified its position on reports alleging that it ordered the arrest of former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, over claims of unaccounted funds running into trillions of naira.
The upper chamber dismissed the reports as inaccurate, stating that no official directive for Kyari’s arrest was issued. It also noted that comments attributed to Senator Adams Oshiomhole, where he allegedly described the NNPCL as a “house of thieves,” were personal opinions and not the Senate’s official stance.
The controversy stems from proceedings by the Senate Committee on Public Accounts, which has been investigating alleged financial irregularities within the NNPCL between 2017 and 2023, based on queries raised by the Office of the Auditor-General.
During a recent hearing, frustration reportedly grew over Kyari’s repeated failure to appear before the committee, with lawmakers debating whether to compel his attendance. Some senators pushed for stronger enforcement, while others called for more time, citing claims that he was receiving medical treatment abroad.
Senator Abdul Ningi argued that claims of illness should be backed with proper documentation, while Senator Victor Umeh moved a motion seeking a warrant of arrest to ensure compliance with the committee’s investigation. The motion was supported by Senator Peter Nwaebonyi, who stressed the need to conclude the probe without further delay.
However, the Senate has now moved to distance itself from interpretations suggesting that an official arrest order had been issued against the former NNPCL boss.
The hearing also generated controversy following remarks by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who reacted to comments from former NNPCL Chief Financial Officer Umar Ajiya Isa regarding employment practices within the company. Oshiomhole accused the organisation of lacking credibility, a statement that sparked widespread public debate.
In response to the allegations of ₦210 trillion in unaccounted funds, the former CFO rejected the claims, insisting that NNPCL’s total revenue during the period under review was far lower and could not support such figures. He also maintained that the company’s audited financial records demonstrate transparency and accountability.
The former finance executive challenged critics to provide evidence for their allegations, warning that unverified claims could damage both the company’s reputation and Nigeria’s international image.
