Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has provided reasons for granting an ex parte application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to freeze the bank accounts of Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
The ruling, delivered on Tuesday, marks a significant turn in the ongoing investigations surrounding Kyari, who has faced increasing scrutiny since his dismissal earlier this year by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Under the court order, funds amounting to ₦661,464,601.50 held across three accounts with Jaiz Bank have been frozen. The accounts are registered in Kyari’s name, as well as under the Guwori Community Development Foundation and the Guwori Community Development Foundation Flood Relief fund.
EFCC counsel Ogechi Ujam submitted the ex parte application, referenced FHC/ABJ/CS/1641, arguing that the account freeze was a necessary step to facilitate the Commission’s ongoing investigation into alleged financial misconduct during Kyari’s tenure at the helm of the NNPCL.
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In his ruling, Justice Nwite stated:
“I have listened to counsel to the applicant and gone through the affidavit evidence with the exhibits and written address attached in support. I found that this application is meritorious, and it is hereby granted as prayed.”
The judge further scheduled 23 September 2025 for a report to be submitted on the ownership of the affected accounts.
Kyari’s troubles began after his removal in April 2025, when President Tinubu appointed Bayo Ojulari as the new head of the NNPCL. Since then, a series of allegations related to financial irregularities have surfaced, although Kyari has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
The EFCC has yet to file formal charges against Kyari, but Tuesday’s court action suggests that the anti-graft agency is intensifying its investigation.
The freezing of the accounts is expected to have broader implications, potentially impacting not only Kyari’s personal finances but also the operations of the community development organisations linked to him.
As the September hearing approaches, attention remains fixed on whether the EFCC will present conclusive evidence or move towards prosecution.
