Court Freezes Ex-NNPC Boss Kyari’s Accounts Over ₦661m Fraud Probe

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the temporary freezing of four bank accounts linked to former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, following allegations of fraud.

Justice Emeka Nwite issued the ruling on Tuesday after considering an ex parte motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The anti-graft agency said its preliminary investigation showed that the accounts, domiciled in Jaiz Bank, were used to warehouse ₦661.4 million suspected to be proceeds of corruption.

According to the EFCC, the accounts include two registered in Kyari’s name and two operated under “Guwori Community Development Foundation.” Investigators alleged that the funds originated from NNPCL and oil companies dealing with the corporation and were managed through Kyari’s relatives acting as proxies.

“I have listened to counsel for the applicant and reviewed the affidavit evidence, exhibits, and written address attached. I find this application meritorious and it is hereby granted as prayed,” Justice Nwite ruled.

The judge adjourned the case until September 23 for further proceedings.