Why court froze ex-NNPCL boss Mele Kyari’s account with Nigerian bank — Judge

geJustice Emeka Nwite has explained why he granted an ex parte order by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to freeze the account of former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, Mele Kyari.

The development has landed Kyari in fresh trouble.

Justice Emeka Nwite granted the ex parte order by the EFCC to freeze Kyari’s account on Tuesday.

Under the order, Kyari’s funds totalling N661,464,601.50 in three Jaiz Bank accounts—registered in his name, the Guwori Community Development Foundation, and the Guwori Community Development Foundation Flood Relief—have been frozen from Tuesday pending investigation.

EFCC’s lawyer, Ogechi Ujam, presented the ex parte order, FHC/ABJ/CS/1641, on the basis that the measure would facilitate the investigation against Kyari.

In his ruling, Justice Nwite stated, “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.”

The judge subsequently fixed September 23 for the report of ownership of the bank accounts.

Kyari was sacked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in April 2025, and Bayo Ojulari was appointed as his replacement.

Following Kyari’s removal, allegations of fraud under his tenure have emerged; however, the former oil firm boss has denied any involvement.