Senate Issues Arrest Warrant for Ex-NNPCL Boss Mele Kyari Dead or Alive Over N210 Trillion

The Senate Committee on Public Accounts has ordered the arrest of former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari. Lawmakers issued the directive after repeated failure to appear before them.

The order, described in dramatic terms as “dead or alive,” targets Kyari alongside former Chief Financial Officer Umar Ajiya Isa and ex-NAPIMS boss Bala Wunti. It stems from alleged unaccounted expenditure of N210 trillion flagged in audit reports covering 2017 to 2023.

Committee Chairman Senator Aliyu Wadada expressed frustration over the former management’s absence. He noted that Kyari never appeared to defend the figures despite earlier summons. Current NNPCL officials and external auditors had provided explanations that the panel found unsatisfactory.

Wadada highlighted issues with how liabilities and assets were presented in the books. “The figures were not netted up,” he stated during proceedings. Ideal accounting principles would have yielded a different picture, but the discrepancies raised serious red flags.

The probe also touched on other expenditures. These include the N5.9 billion spent on NNPCL rebranding during Kyari’s tenure. Senators questioned the justification for such costs amid broader financial opacity.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole weighed in sharply. He criticized the NNPCL, saying the company “has no reputation” beyond repeated fraud allegations. His remarks underscored public skepticism toward the oil giant’s governance.

Kyari’s team reportedly sent representatives on some occasions rather than appearing personally. The committee viewed this as disregard for oversight. Lawmakers warned they would invoke constitutional powers to compel attendance if ignored.

The matter traces back to audited financial statements prepared by external auditors. Investigations began after the committee reviewed documents spanning Kyari’s leadership period. Government continuity was cited as a reason for focusing on former officials now.

Public reactions on X (formerly Twitter) reflect widespread outrage. Many users called for full accountability, with posts echoing the “thief dey arrest thief” sentiment. Videos of the committee session circulated widely, amplifying calls for transparency in the petroleum sector.

No official response from Kyari or his representatives was immediately available. The Senate has set a new date for appearance, threatening warrants if defied. This development adds to ongoing scrutiny of NNPCL’s operations and past refinery rehabilitation deals.

The case highlights persistent challenges in Nigeria’s oil industry governance. Stakeholders await further proceedings as the committee pushes for answers on the massive sums involved.