Nigerians residing in the United Kingdom staged a protest on Monday, demanding the immediate deportation of Mele Kyari, former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), to face corruption charges by Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Organized under the coalition Rescue Nigeria Now, demonstrators gathered outside the Nigerian High Commission and the UK Home Office, brandishing placards with bold messages like “Withdraw Mele Kyari’s Residency Now!” and “London Isn’t for Corrupt Officials!”.
Key Details of the Protest
The group submitted formal petitions to both the Nigerian High Commission and the UK Home Office, accusing Kyari of fleeing Nigeria to evade accountability for alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as NNPC chief (2019–2025). Protesters emphasized that his presence in the UK undermines Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts and called for urgent action under international agreements.
Formal Petitions: A Demand for Justice
In a letter addressed to Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the UK, Sarafa Tunji Isola, the coalition labeled Kyari’s UK residency as an “affront to Nigerians” and insisted the High Commission deny him diplomatic privileges until he submits to EFCC investigations. The petition stressed:
“This is a moral, civic, and nationalistic demand… Kyari must face justice, and stolen funds must be recovered for Nigeria’s development.”
The group also urged the UK Home Office to honor bilateral anti-corruption treaties, emphasizing that foreign nations should not harbor officials accused of graft.
Why This Matters
Kyari’s case highlights growing public frustration over accountability for high-profile figures in Nigeria. As NNPC CEO, he oversaw critical oil sector reforms, but allegations of mismanagement and graft have trailed his tenure. The protest underscores the diaspora’s role in advocating for transparency and the repatriation of allegedly embezzled funds.
International Anti-Corruption Collaboration
The protesters cited UK-Nigeria agreements to combat cross-border corruption, urging swift deportation. Their actions align with global efforts to prevent safe havens for officials accused of financial crimes.
What’s Next?
Pressure mounts on UK authorities to respond to the petitions, while Nigeria’s EFCC is expected to intensify investigations. Kyari has yet to publicly address the protests.
Final Call to Action
The Rescue Nigeria Now coalition’s protest amplifies the urgency of addressing corruption at all levels. For updates on this story and Nigeria’s anti-graft efforts, follow more gist and share this post to raise awareness.
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