The call for a probe of Mele Kyari intensified as protesters gathered in the United Kingdom, demanding immediate action against the former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer. Organised by the civil society group Rescue Nigeria Now, the protest unfolded simultaneously outside the Nigerian High Commission and the UK Home Office in London.
The demonstrators, mostly Nigerian nationals living in the UK, accused Kyari of fleeing the country to escape accountability for alleged financial infractions committed during his tenure from 2019 to 2025. They urged both British and Nigerian authorities to revoke his residency status and expedite his return to face prosecution.
Civil Society Mobilises for Accountability
Protesters submitted formal petitions to the Nigerian High Commission and the UK Home Office. Placards bearing slogans such as “Withdraw Mele Kyari’s residency now!” and “London is not for public officials who abused public trust” conveyed the urgency of their demands.
In a strongly worded letter, Rescue Nigeria Now called Kyari’s continued stay in the UK “an insult to Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.”
“We are appalled by the impunity with which Mr. Kyari roams London streets while Nigerian agencies overflow with petitions and audit reports implicating him,” the group stated.
UK Urged to Honour Anti-Corruption Treaties
The group reminded British authorities of existing bilateral agreements with Nigeria that discourage harbouring individuals linked to corruption. They insisted Kyari’s presence undermines both nations’ commitments to justice and transparency.
“We request that the UK Home Office revoke Mr. Kyari’s residency. Justice must prevail, and stolen funds must return to support Nigeria’s recovery,” the petition read.
Nigerian Government Reshuffles NNPCL Leadership
The protest follows President Bola Tinubu’s move on 2 April 2025 to remove Mele Kyari from office. Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari replaced him as Group CEO, with Ahmadu Musa Kida appointed as the new board chairman. The president described the leadership overhaul as essential for boosting investor confidence, operational efficiency, and gas sector reform.
Earlier in April, a separate protest was staged at the office of the Attorney General of the Federation, also calling for Kyari’s prosecution.
Mounting Pressure and Public Outcry
As calls for a probe of Mele Kyari gain momentum, public pressure mounts on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to formally charge the ex-NNPCL chief. Civil groups argue that letting the matter slide would severely dent Nigeria’s anti-corruption image both at home and abroad.
The movement’s latest action in the UK underscores growing international interest in the case and signals that Nigerians abroad remain invested in transparency and accountability at home.