The Senate Committee on Public Accounts has summoned former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, alongside other past and serving officials, to appear within two weeks over alleged N210 trillion in unremitted funds flagged in audit reports.
The directive was issued during a hearing at the National Assembly chaired by Aliyu Wadada, where lawmakers reviewed NNPCL’s audited financial statements covering 2017 to 2023.
The committee also warned it could invoke constitutional powers, including issuing a warrant of arrest, to compel the appearance of the current NNPCL GCEO, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, following repeated failure to honour legislative invitations.
Proceedings were halted after the committee refused to engage with company representatives in the absence of both the GCEO and the Chief Financial Officer.
Although the NNPCL had sent a letter citing official engagements abroad and nominated its Financial Controller, Tajuddeen Kareem, to represent it, lawmakers rejected the move, citing late notice and procedural violations.
Wadada stressed that the probe was not an accusation of wrongdoing but an effort to clarify discrepancies in the company’s accounts.
“We are not saying any money has been stolen, but the figures presented require proper explanation for Nigerians to understand,” he said.
Tensions escalated as lawmakers criticised the NNPCL’s repeated absence. Adams Oshiomhole described the situation as disrespectful, questioning whether the GCEO considered himself above the law.
“What cannot be explained may be deemed to have been stolen. They must prove otherwise,” Oshiomhole said, urging consideration of stricter measures.
Similarly, Victor Umeh described the development as “despicable,” insisting Nigerians deserve full accountability over the disputed funds.
However, some lawmakers, including Saliu Mustapha, suggested proceeding with questioning former officials already present, such as former CFO Umar Ajiya.
Earlier, Abdul Ningi indicated that Kyari and other officials were expected to attend the next hearing, noting that communication gaps were being addressed.
At the centre of the probe is the alleged N210 trillion discrepancy, comprising N103 trillion recorded as accrued expenses and N107 trillion classified as receivables.
The committee faulted NNPCL’s explanation that the accrued expenses were tied to Joint Venture cash calls, noting that the arrangement was abolished in 2016.
It also rejected claims that the receivables were owed by unnamed defunct banks, citing lack of specific details.
The committee reaffirmed its determination to conclude the investigation and mandated all relevant officials to appear at the next hearing for comprehensive explanations.
