By Kayode Sanni-Arewa and Prosper Olayiwola
Justice Emeka Nwite has given reasons for granting an ex parte application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to freeze the bank accounts of former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari.
The judge issued the order on Tuesday, a move that has plunged the former NNPCL boss into fresh trouble. 
The order affects funds totalling ₦661,464,601.50 across three Jaiz Bank accounts — one in Kyari’s name, and two linked to the Guwori Community Development Foundation and the Guwori Community Development Foundation Flood Relief.
According to EFCC counsel, Ogechi Ujam, who filed the ex parte motion marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1641, the freezing of the accounts is necessary to enable ongoing investigations against Kyari.
In his ruling, Justice Nwite stated, “I have listened to counsel to the applicant and gone through the affidavit evidence with the exhibits and written address attached in support. I found that this application is meritorious, and it is hereby granted as prayed.”
The judge subsequently fixed September 23 for the report of ownership of the bank accounts.
Recall that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sacked Kyari in April 2025 and appointed Bayo Ojulari as his replacement.
Since his removal, allegations of fraud during his tenure have surfaced, but the former oil chief has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
