Kyari expresses shock over Senate arrest warrant, says he was away on medical grounds

Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has reacted to the arrest warrant issued against him by the Senate Committee on Public Accounts, describing the development as shocking.

Kyari, in a letter dated June 10, 2026, said he had earlier notified the committee that he was outside the country for medical treatment and unable to appear physically before lawmakers.

He explained that the letter, dated May 8 and received by the committee on May 11, informed members of his situation and his willingness to appear once he returned to Nigeria.

The former NNPCL boss insisted that his absence was not intended to frustrate the committee’s investigation, adding that he remained committed to cooperating with the probe.

“I am deeply shocked by the issuance of the warrant, especially as I had earlier communicated with your committee via a letter dated and received on 11th May, 2026,” Kyari stated.

He added that he had offered to respond to any questions from the committee in writing to prevent delays in its proceedings.

Kyari further stated that he was ready to honour the invitation of the committee after returning to the country and at a time convenient to the lawmakers.

In his earlier correspondence, Kyari said he was unaware of any formal invitation from the committee until he learnt of the directive requiring him to appear over matters relating to NNPCL’s financial records during his tenure.

He explained that although he would have attended the hearing, he was unable to do so because he was receiving medical care abroad.

Kyari requested that any questions from the committee be channelled through his legal representatives so he could provide necessary clarifications while undergoing treatment.

The former NNPCL chief executive also defended his tenure, saying all transactions carried out under his leadership were properly documented and remained available for verification.

He expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve the country, maintaining that he carried out his responsibilities with commitment and diligence.

The Senate Committee on Public Accounts had issued the arrest warrant after Kyari failed to appear before it during its ongoing investigation into NNPCL’s financial transactions.

The probe covers 19 audit queries raised by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation regarding the company’s accounts between 2017 and 2023, including concerns over financial transactions reportedly exceeding ₦210 trillion.

The motion for the warrant was moved by Senator Victor Umeh and seconded by Senator Adams Oshiomhole.