Former Group Chief Government Officer of the Nigerian Nationwide Petroleum Firm (NNPC) Restricted, Mele Kyari, has denied studies that he’s within the custody of the Financial and Monetary Crimes Fee (EFCC), describing the declare as a mischievous fabrication geared toward tarnishing his picture.

In an announcement launched on X (previously Twitter) on Saturday, Kyari mentioned he has been overwhelmed with calls from household and buddies over the unverified declare revealed by a web based newspaper, which he mentioned was orchestrated by unnamed sponsors with a hidden agenda.

“The story is a transparent case of mischief and calculated falsehood. I’m at the moment taking a well-deserved relaxation after the dissolution of the NNPCL board and administration,” he said.

Kyari, who served the NNPC and later NNPCL for 34 years—17 of these in high administration roles, together with nearly six years as CEO—mentioned he had no time for even a two-week break throughout his tenure. He expressed gratitude for the chance to serve underneath former President Muhammadu Buhari and present President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“I served not solely my nation but in addition God,” he mentioned, including that as a religious Muslim, he’s ever aware of divine accountability and subsequently open to responding to any lawful inquiries about his stewardship.

Kyari mentioned that disinformation, such because the EFCC declare, might harm nationwide establishments and scare off potential traders. He urged the media to train due diligence and keep away from getting used as instruments in smear campaigns.

“I sincerely thank my household and buddies who reached out. I guarantee everybody that I stay obtainable and accountable to all lawful authorities,” he mentioned.