Sources confirmed to KogiTribune that Kyari, alongside several former NNPC officials and contractors, is expected to face trial soon over alleged mismanagement of more than $2.5 billion allocated for the turnaround maintenance of the country’s refineries.
Kyari Under Daily Watch
Kyari, who first appeared before EFCC investigators on Wednesday, has been placed on conditional bail requiring him to report every day for interrogation. The commission has also placed restrictions on some of his bank accounts.
According to investigators, the daily reporting order is necessary because of the “sheer volume of documents” under review. Kyari is expected to clarify grey areas and respond to contractors’ claims relating to contracts awarded under his watch.
“He is in the final lap of the investigation,” an EFCC source said. “His responses will help us tie up loose ends before charges are filed. From the evidence so far, he and others may be arraigned soon.”
Between 2010 and 2025, about $18 billion was reportedly spent on refinery maintenance, yet Nigeria’s refineries remain moribund. Under Kyari’s tenure, more than $1.55 billion was disbursed to the Port Harcourt refinery, $740.6 million to Kaduna refinery, and $656.9 million to Warri refinery — with little to show for it.
Sujimoto CEO in EFCC Custody
Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Ltd, Sijibomi Ogundele, remains in EFCC custody after a magistrate court granted a remand order. Ogundele is being probed over an alleged N5.7 billion fraudlinked to a contract awarded by the Enugu State Government for the construction of 22 Smart Green Schools.
According to the EFCC, Ogundele collected 50% mobilization (N5.7 billion) on an N11.4 billion contract awarded in July 2024 but allegedly abandoned the project after delivering substandard work. Both his personal and company accounts have been frozen pending investigation.
“He has not made any concessions. He must either explain how he spent the funds or refund them,” an EFCC investigator stated.
The Enugu State Government insists Ogundele breached the contract, accusing him of employing quack engineers and abandoning sites without meeting structural specifications.
Next Steps
The EFCC is expected to press charges against Kyari, Ogundele, and several former NNPC executives in the coming weeks. Officials familiar with the case say the trials could mark a defining moment in Nigeria’s long-running battle against corruption in the oil sector, especially as the country continues to grapple with non-functional refineries despite billions spent.
