LAGOS, Nigeria – Allegations that Mele Kyari, the former Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), gifted a 2025 Rolls Royce valued at over $350,000 to the brother of Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), a prominent figure in the Niger Delta, have ignited public outrage and renewed scrutiny of corruption within Nigeria’s oil sector.
The alleged gift, which has been widely circulated on social media, raises questions about the relationship between Kyari, Tompolo, and the management of Nigeria’s oil resources. Tompolo, a former militant leader, has been awarded lucrative government contracts for oil pipeline surveillance, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
The timing of the alleged gift, following Kyari’s quiet removal from his position earlier this year, has further fueled speculation about the reasons for his departure and the extent of corruption within NNPCL.
Critics question why a public servant would allegedly gift such an extravagant car to the sibling of a man associated with militancy and oil pipeline surveillance. They also point to Tompolo’s consistent praise of Kyari, even amidst accusations of oil bunkering and corruption within NNPCL, as suspicious.
During Kyari’s tenure, NNPCL awarded a ₦48 billion surveillance contract to Tompolo’s company, Global West Vessel Specialist Limited, purportedly to combat oil bunkering. However, oil theft has continued, and billions of dollars have gone missing, leading to questions about the effectiveness of the contract and the integrity of the process.
The allegations have prompted calls for a thorough investigation into Kyari’s activities and the awarding of contracts during his tenure. Social media has been flooded with angry reactions, with many Nigerians expressing frustration over the perceived impunity of the elite and the lack of accountability in the oil sector.
Neither Kyari nor Tompolo’s camp has issued a denial or clarification, adding to the public’s suspicion. The silence has been described as “deafening” and “revealing.”
The alleged gift of a luxury car highlights the systemic issues of corruption and lack of accountability in Nigeria’s oil sector, where some individuals are perceived as being “untouchable.” The scandal underscores the need for greater transparency and oversight in the management of Nigeria’s oil resources to ensure that they benefit all citizens.
The allegations are being closely watched by international observers, as they could have significant implications for Nigeria’s reputation and its efforts to attract foreign investment in the oil sector.
