Abuja Court Freezes Four Jaiz Bank Accounts Linked To Ex-NNPCL Boss Mele Kyari Over Alleged Fraud

The noose appears to be tightening around Mele Kyari, the immediate past Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). In a dramatic turn of events, the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the temporary freezing of four bank accounts allegedly linked to him, over what investigators describe as a web of conspiracy, abuse of office, and money laundering.

Justice Emeka Nwite, presiding over the matter, granted the order on Tuesday after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) convinced the court that the funds in the accounts may be proceeds of unlawful activities. Acting through its counsel, Ogechi Ujam, the Commission moved an ex-parte motion, asking for time to conclude its investigation into Kyari’s financial dealings.

At the heart of the probe are four Jaiz Bank accounts — two in Kyari’s name and two others operated under the Guwori Community Development Foundation. Investigators allege that no less than N661.4 million was traced into the accounts, suspected to be slush funds disguised as payments for a book launch and NGO-related activities.

According to an affidavit sworn by EFCC investigator Amin Abdullahi, the inflows were traced back to transactions involving the NNPCL and several oil companies. The Commission claims Kyari managed the accounts through proxies, including family members, while maintaining control of their operations.

The case stemmed from a petition filed in April by a civil society group, Guardian of Democracy and Rule of Law. Following the petition, the EFCC secured a temporary “no debit order” on the accounts, which was due to expire in 72 hours. To prevent the funds from being moved, the agency sought and obtained the latest freezing order from the court.

Justice Nwite, after reviewing the evidence, ruled that the EFCC’s application had merit and adjourned the case till September 23 for further report.

For Kyari, who only months ago was at the commanding heights of Nigeria’s oil industry, this development marks a sharp fall from grace. Once celebrated for steering the NNPCL through its controversial transition into a limited liability company, he now faces accusations that threaten to overshadow his legacy.

As investigations deepen, questions are already swirling within political and corporate circles: Will Kyari’s case become another high-profile anti-graft battle that fizzles out, or will it set a precedent in holding former public office holders accountable?