The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is facing mounting pressure from civil society following allegations that over $7.2 billion was mismanaged during refinery rehabilitation projects under the tenure of former NNPC Limited boss, Mallam Mele Kyari.
The Coalition for Accountability in Public Resources (CAPR), in a statement issued Monday in Abuja, accused the EFCC of dragging its feet on the matter. The group, through its National President, Comrade Ebiowei Ogoniba, said Nigerians deserve full recovery of the misappropriated funds, not just symbolic enforcement actions.
“Freezing accounts is not justice. Nigerians want recovery of every dollar looted under Kyari’s watch,” the statement read.
CAPR Demands EFCC Recovery of $7.2bn Refinery Funds
According to CAPR, while the EFCC recently froze bank accounts linked to Kyari, his relatives and associates allegedly continue to launder illicit funds through real estate, foreign education, luxury assets, and businesses both in Nigeria and abroad.
CAPR criticized what it described as “selective justice,” pointing out that lesser-known civil servants are often paraded for minor financial crimes, while high-profile political figures are shielded by bureaucracy and backroom deals.
“Nigerians are tired of theatrics. Unless the EFCC goes after the full network of relatives and associates hiding this wealth, its credibility will continue to sink,” Ogoniba warned.
Refinery Projects Still Non-Functional
Mele Kyari, who served as Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) before its transition to NNPCL, has faced scrutiny for allegedly overseeing massive disbursements for refinery upgrades that have yet to produce results.
Despite multi-billion-dollar allocations, Nigeria’s key refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna remain non-functional, forcing the country to rely heavily on imported refined fuel a situation CAPR claims has crippled local industries, increased transportation costs, and deepened youth unemployment.
CAPR to Tinubu: Prove Your Anti-Corruption Agenda
The coalition did not stop at the EFCC. It also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take a stand by ensuring prosecution and full recovery of stolen funds linked to the scandal.
“The refinery fraud is why small factories are shutting down, why millions of youths are jobless, and why transport costs remain unbearable. If this government is serious about reforms, it must insist that every kobo is returned,” said Ogoniba.
Mass Protests Loom if EFCC Recovery of $7.2bn Refinery Funds Fails
CAPR has vowed to intensify pressure, calling on civil society organisations, labour unions, and the media to demand full accountability. The group warned that public patience is wearing thin and hinted at potential mass protests if decisive action is not taken.
“Transparency in this investigation is non-negotiable,” the statement concluded.
EFCC Recovery of $7.2bn Refinery Funds Probe
Mele Kyari was invited and questioned by the EFCC earlier this month over allegations linked to the mismanagement of refinery funds. Though released after questioning, no formal charges have yet been announced. Investigations are said to be ongoing.
As Nigerians continue to endure economic hardship and rising fuel costs, the call for accountability in the petroleum sector is once again front and center.
