London, United Kingdom – Hundreds of Nigerians protested outside the Nigerian High Commission and the UK Home Office on May 12, 2025, demanding the deportation of Mele Kyari, former Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), to face corruption investigations back home.
The demonstration, organized by the group Rescue Nigeria Now (RNN), saw protestors waving placards with messages like “Withdraw Mele Kyari’s residency now!” and “Mele Kyari, go home and face the EFCC now!” They allege that Kyari fled Nigeria to avoid accountability for financial misconduct during his tenure from 2019 to 2025.
In a petition delivered to the Nigerian High Commissioner, the group expressed outrage at Kyari’s ability to live in the UK “with impunity.” They noted that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has received numerous claims against him regarding his time at NNPCL.
The petition emphasized that Kyari’s presence in the UK was “an affront to the people of Nigeria” and “an insult” to ongoing anti-corruption efforts by the Nigerian government. They stated, “This letter is not merely a petition—it is a demand—a moral, civic, and nationalistic demand.”
The group raised serious allegations against Kyari, including the disappearance of billions of dollars intended for refinery rehabilitation projects in Warri, Kaduna, and Port Harcourt, which they claim vanished without explanation. They argued that Nigeria remains dependent on imported fuel while the country’s refineries are not operational.
Additionally, RNN accused Kyari of managing a corrupt fuel subsidy system, leading to massive financial losses. “Trillions of naira were allocated under a dubious subsidy regime, and yet, everyday Nigerians have suffered from fuel scarcity and high pump prices as a result of his tenure,” they stated.
The coalition also claimed that Kyari transferred illicit funds to UK bank accounts, violating anti-money laundering laws. “If he is free to roam in the UK, it sends a wrong message about the UK’s commitment to fighting corruption,” the petition read.
In addressing the UK Home Office, RNN pressed for immediate action to expel Kyari under international anti-corruption agreements between Nigeria and the UK. “We urge you to facilitate his return to Nigeria to face justice and account for his actions,” they demanded.
This protest comes as the EFCC intensifies its investigation into the allegations against Kyari’s leadership at NNPCL. With public attention now on the UK’s response, Nigerians await decisive actions in the fight against corruption.
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