By Nafisat Makinde
Hundreds of Nigerians gathered outside the Nigerian High Commission and the UK Home Office in London on May 12, 2025, demanding justice for alleged corruption cases involving former NNPCL boss Mele Kyari.
The protesters, under the banner of Rescue Nigeria Now, submitted formal petitions to both institutions, calling for Kyari’s deportation to face corruption investigations in Nigeria.
Kyari is accused of mismanaging billions of dollars earmarked for refinery rehabilitation, with no tangible results recorded.
According to the petition, “billions of dollars that were ostensibly budgeted for the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s decrepit refineries just unaccountably vanished into a bureaucratic abyss under the leadership of Mr. Kyari.”
The protesters also highlighted the country’s continued reliance on imported refined petroleum products despite being Africa’s largest oil producer.
The group alleges that Kyari’s leadership was marred by crony capitalism, confusion, and unexplained contradictions, with opaque subsidy payments lacking transparency.
Furthermore, protesters claim Kyari transferred illicit funds to UK bank accounts, violating anti-money laundering legislation.
“We have cause to believe that for Mr. Kyari to have fled to the United Kingdom, he has transferred parts of the proceeds of his crimes to bank accounts in London,” the petition reads.
The protesters demanded that the Nigerian High Commission in the UK refrain from according Kyari any official reception, recognition, or diplomatic courtesy until he returns to Nigeria to face justice.
“We demand in the strongest terms that the Nigerian High Commission in the United Kingdom refrains from according him any form of official reception, recognition, or diplomatic courtesy until he returns to Nigeria to submit himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other relevant investigative bodies,” the petition states.
The UK authorities were also called upon to act in accordance with international anti-corruption agreements, expelling Kyari to ensure he faces justice for his actions.
“Considering the extensive evidence of corruption and the severe impact on Nigeria, we hereby request that the Home Office expel Mr. Mele Kyari so that he can return to Nigeria,” the petition adds.
The protest underscores the growing demand for transparency and accountability in public service, both at home and abroad.
As the EFCC continues its investigations, the international community’s response remains to be seen.
The case highlights the importance of cooperation between nations in combating corruption and ensuring that those accused of corruption face justice.
