Nigeria Urged to Request Extradition of Ex-NNPC Boss Mele Kyari from UK Over Corruption Allegations

LONDON – iNewsAfrica | Pressure is mounting on the Nigerian government to officially demand the extradition of Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), who is currently reported to be residing in the United Kingdom.

This comes in the wake of growing protests and petitions by Nigerians in the diaspora calling for Kyari to face justice over serious corruption allegations. Protesters in London accused the former NNPCL chief of misappropriating billions of dollars allocated for refinery rehabilitation projects during his tenure, and allegedly transferring illicit funds to foreign accounts.

According to anti-corruption activists and legal analysts, Nigeria has every legal basis to act swiftly. “The UK and Nigeria have existing bilateral extradition treaties. But until an official request is filed by Nigeria’s Attorney General, no legal action can proceed in the UK,” said international law expert Chika Okafor.

The demands for Kyari’s return have amplified in recent weeks as whistleblower reports continue to surface, implicating the former NNPC boss in financial misconduct, asset diversion, and abuse of office.

“It is no longer enough to issue press statements or initiate internal reviews. The Nigerian government must file a formal extradition request through diplomatic and legal channels if it is serious about accountability,” said Musa Aliu, coordinator of the Nigerian Integrity Network in London.

Mele Kyari, who led the NNPCL from 2019 until April 2025, had been previously praised for reforming parts of the oil sector. However, critics argue that beneath the surface of transparency reforms were shadow dealings that have now come to light.

The Federal Government has yet to issue an official statement regarding any potential extradition process. However, civil society groups and diaspora coalitions have vowed to sustain international pressure until legal action is taken.

If Nigeria proceeds with the extradition request, it would mark a decisive step in reinforcing the country’s anti-corruption stance and sending a message that no official is above the law—home or abroad.

iNewsAfrica will continue monitoring this developing story.