The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the freezing of three bank accounts linked to former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, following a request by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Justice Emeka Nwite, who granted the ex parte order on Tuesday, said the measure was necessary to aid ongoing investigations into alleged financial misconduct.
According to court filings, the frozen accounts, domiciled in Jaiz Bank, contain a total of ₦661,464,601.50. They are registered under Kyari’s name, the Guwori Community Development Foundation, and the Guwori Community Development Foundation Flood Relief.
“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,” Justice Nwite ruled.
The EFCC’s counsel, Ogechi Ujam, argued that freezing the accounts was necessary to prevent the possible diversion of funds while investigations continue. The court has fixed September 23 to determine the true ownership of the accounts.
Kyari, who was removed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in April 2025 and replaced by Bayo Ojulari, has faced a wave of corruption allegations since leaving office. The former NNPCL boss, however, has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
