Hundreds of Nigerians gathered in London on Monday, May 12, 2025, protesting outside the Nigerian High Commission and the UK Home Office. The demonstrators, operating under the banner of Rescue Nigeria Now, are calling for the immediate deportation of former NNPCL Group CEO, Mele Kolo Kyari OFR, to face corruption investigations in Nigeria.
The protesters submitted formal petitions to both institutions, accusing Kyari of fleeing the country to avoid accountability. They carried placards with bold messages such as “Withdraw Mele Kyari’s residency now!” and “London is not for public officials who abused public trust.”
According to the group, Kyari’s tenure from 2019 to 2025 was plagued by allegations of large-scale corruption, including the mismanagement of billions of dollars meant for refinery rehabilitation. In a strongly-worded letter to the Nigerian High Commissioner, the coalition expressed outrage over Kyari’s continued presence in the UK, describing it as a “national insult” and an “affront to Nigeria’s anti-corruption crusade.”
They demanded the commission withdraw any official recognition or diplomatic courtesy extended to him until he returns to face the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The petition cited alleged fraudulent subsidy payments, unaccounted funds, and persistent fuel scarcity as legacies of Kyari’s leadership. It also claimed whistleblower reports and documents have been submitted to the EFCC, detailing questionable transactions and offshore payments.
In its letter to the UK Home Office, the group alleged Kyari transferred illicit funds to UK accounts, urging British authorities to uphold anti-money laundering laws and international anti-corruption agreements.
“The UK must not be a refuge for individuals accused of looting public funds,” the group said, appealing for Kyari’s deportation to aid Nigeria’s fight against corruption and recover looted assets.
The protest highlights a growing international push among Nigerians for public accountability and justice in the wake of widespread financial misconduct.
