Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has reacted to the Senate Committee on Public Accounts’ decision to issue an arrest warrant against him over an ongoing investigation into the oil company’s financial records.
Kyari described the development as “deeply shocking,” insisting that he never ignored the Senate’s invitation and had previously informed lawmakers that he was receiving medical treatment outside Nigeria.
Why Kyari Missed Senate Hearing
In a statement issued on Thursday, June 11, the former NNPCL boss explained that he had written to the Senate committee on May 11, notifying members that he was abroad undergoing medical treatment.
According to him, the letter clearly stated his willingness to appear before the committee upon his return to Nigeria.
“I am deeply shocked by the issuance of the warrant. I had formally informed the committee that I was receiving medical treatment abroad and expressed my readiness to honour the invitation once I return,” Kyari said.
He added that he had also offered to respond to urgent inquiries through his legal representatives while away.
Kyari Denies Avoiding Investigation
Kyari rejected suggestions that he deliberately shunned the Senate probe, maintaining that he had not received any fresh summons after notifying lawmakers of his medical condition.
The former NNPCL chief stressed that his health challenges currently prevent him from appearing physically before the committee but assured lawmakers of his full cooperation.
“I remain willing and ready to appear before the committee as soon as my health permits and I return to the country,” he stated.
Defends Record at NNPCL
Kyari also defended his tenure at the national oil company, arguing that his administration transformed NNPCL from a loss-making entity into a commercially viable and profitable organization.
He maintained that all transactions carried out under his leadership were properly documented and remain available for scrutiny by relevant authorities.
Senate’s Position
The Senate Committee on Public Accounts issued the arrest order during its hearing on Wednesday, June 10, over concerns surrounding financial records and alleged discrepancies linked to the NNPCL during Kyari’s tenure.
The development came a day after Senator Adams Oshiomhole called for stronger action to ensure Kyari appears before the committee.
Nigerians React
The controversy has sparked mixed reactions online.
@AbdulPolitics said:
“If he officially informed the committee that he was abroad for treatment, due process should be followed before issuing an arrest warrant.”
@OilWatchNG wrote:
“The investigation must continue. Nigerians deserve answers regardless of who is involved.”
@ChiomaReports commented:
“The Senate should verify his claims first. If there is proof of medical treatment abroad, the matter should be handled carefully.”
@CitizenVoiceNG added:
“Nobody is above accountability. If he says he is willing to appear, then he should do so immediately after returning.”
Key Points
Kyari says he is shocked by the Senate’s arrest warrant.
He claims he notified lawmakers that he was receiving medical treatment abroad.
The former NNPCL boss denies deliberately avoiding the Senate probe.
He has pledged full cooperation and promised to appear when his health permits.
Nigerians remain divided over the Senate’s decision and the ongoing investigation.
The Senate investigation into NNPCL’s finances continues, with growing public interest in the outcome and whether Kyari will eventually appear before lawmakers to answer questions regarding his stewardship of the national oil company.
