….Denies Dodging Probe, Pledges to Appear After Treatment
By Adesina Adeleja
Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has described the Senate Committee on Public Accounts’ decision to issue an arrest warrant against him as “deeply shocking.”
In a formal letter addressed to the committee chairman, Kyari clarified that he had earlier informed the panel of his inability to appear due to medical treatment abroad.
“I refer to the news of the arrest warrant issued against me during the proceedings of your esteemed Committee today, 10th June, 2026. I am deeply shocked by the issuance of the warrant,” Kyari wrote.
He referenced a letter sent to the committee on May 11, 2026, in which he notified lawmakers that he was receiving medical care outside the country. In that correspondence, Kyari expressed his willingness to honour the committee’s invitation upon his return to Nigeria and offered to provide written responses to any urgent questions through his legal representatives.
“I also expressed my willingness to honour the Committee’s invitation as soon as I return to Nigeria,” he stated. “I wish to reiterate that I remain very willing and ready to honour the invitation of the Committee and to appear before it once I return to the country.”
Kyari firmly denied any attempt to evade the Senate’s invitation, noting that he had not received any fresh summons before the warrant was issued.
“However, I wish to respectfully state that I have neither received nor sighted the said invitation,” he said. “Had the invitation reached me, I would have gladly honoured it.”
The former NNPCL boss explained that his current medical condition has made it impossible for him to appear in person. He urged the committee to channel any questions or requests for clarification through his legal team to ensure prompt responses while he continues treatment abroad.
Kyari assured the Senate of his full cooperation and respect for the legislative oversight process. He pledged to appear before the committee personally as soon as his health permits.
Defence of Tenure
In the letter, Kyari also defended his leadership of the national oil company, stating that his team transformed NNPCL from a loss-making entity into a profitable commercial organisation. He added that all transactions during his tenure were properly documented and remain available for scrutiny at the NNPCL.
“I remain deeply grateful to my country for the opportunity afforded me to serve with utmost diligence and commitment,” he said.
Background
The Senate Committee on Public Accounts issued the arrest warrant after Kyari failed to appear at its sitting. The panel is investigating financial records and transactions of the NNPCL, including allegations surrounding over ₦210 trillion.
The motion for the warrant was moved by Senator Victor Umeh and seconded by Senator Adams Oshiomhole.
Kyari’s latest response appears aimed at dispelling suggestions of deliberate non-cooperation, attributing his absence primarily to health reasons and possible communication gaps regarding subsequent invitations. He has maintained that he has nothing to hide and remains committed to assisting the investigation.
Romelu Lukaku Joins Fenerbahçe from Napoli in €6m Transfer—-The Belgian striker has completed his move to Turkey after Napoli agreed to sell him to Fenerbahçe for a reported €6 million plus bonuses, bringing his two-year spell in Italy to an end.
Romelu Lukaku has completed his transfer from Napoli to Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, ending his time in Serie A after the two clubs reached an agreement for the Belgian striker.
The 33-year-old has joined the Istanbul club in a permanent transfer, with Italian media reporting that Fenerbahçe will pay around €6 million, with additional performance-related bonuses potentially increasing the value of the deal. Neither club formally disclosed the financial details of the transfer.
Lukaku’s departure brings an end to a two-year spell with Napoli, where he played an important role in the club’s domestic success. The Belgian joined the Italian side from Chelsea in 2024 and went on to help Napoli secure the Serie A title during the 2024–25 campaign.
His time in Naples was ultimately disrupted by fitness problems during his final season. Lukaku made only seven appearances during the injury-affected campaign, limiting his opportunities before the decision was eventually taken to move him on.
Despite those difficulties, Lukaku leaves Napoli with a league title on his résumé and a reputation as one of Europe’s most experienced centre-forwards. His physical presence, finishing ability and extensive experience at the highest level made him an attractive target for Fenerbahçe as the Turkish club looked to strengthen its attack.
The move also represents a return to Turkey for Lukaku, who has a personal connection to the country. His father, former professional footballer Roger Lukaku, played for Gençlerbirliği in Ankara, meaning the Belgian spent part of his childhood in Turkey. Lukaku described his return as an emotional moment as he begins a new chapter with Fenerbahçe.
Fenerbahçe finished second in the Turkish league last season and are looking to close the gap on their rivals while competing for major honours. Lukaku’s arrival gives the club an experienced attacking option capable of leading the line and providing a significant presence in the final third.
The Belgian international also arrives after featuring at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite Belgium’s eventual exit in the quarter-finals, Lukaku scored three goals during the tournament, demonstrating that he remains capable of making an impact on the international stage.
Before joining Napoli, Lukaku enjoyed successful spells at clubs including Everton, Manchester United, Inter Milan and Chelsea. His most productive period came at Inter, where he helped the Italian side win the Serie A title in 2020–21 before returning to Chelsea.
His move to Fenerbahçe now gives the veteran striker another opportunity to write a new chapter in his career. For Napoli, the transfer allows the club to move on from a player whose final season was heavily affected by injuries, while Fenerbahçe gain an experienced forward as they pursue domestic and European ambitions.
Lukaku’s arrival is expected to generate significant excitement among Fenerbahçe supporters, who will hope the Belgian can rediscover his best form and provide the goals needed to challenge for silverware in Turkey.
Fletcher Hails Senator Yayi’s 56th Birthday, Applauds His Commitment to Good Governance—-The President of the Association of Professional Food Service Providers of Nigeria (APFSN) , Managing Director, OfadaBoy Restaurant, a professional food service company, convener Ofada Rice Day and Co-Convener of Yayi Forward, Mr. Oluwatobi Fletcher (Ofadaboy), has felicitated with the Senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, on his birthday.
Fletcher, who is an indigene of Ofada town in Obafemi Owode local Government in Ogun State, described Senator Adeola as a committed public servant whose political journey and contributions to legislative development have continued to make a significant impact on the people of Ogun State and Nigeria.
In a birthday message, Fletcher commended the Senator for his dedication to public service, describing his leadership style as one anchored on grassroots engagement, purposeful representation and commitment to the welfare and development of his constituents.
According to Fletcher, Senator Adeola’s contributions to the development of Ogun West and his broader efforts in supporting initiatives that promote economic growth, empowerment and improved opportunities for the people deserve recognition and commendation.
“Today, we celebrate not just a politician, but a leader whose journey reflects resilience, dedication and a deep commitment to public service. Senator Solomon Adeola has demonstrated that leadership is ultimately about the people and the positive impact one can make in their lives.
“On behalf of APFSN, Yayi Forward and myself, I wish our distinguished Senator a very happy birthday. May God continue to grant him wisdom, good health, strength and the courage to continue serving our people and contributing to the development of our dear nation,” Fletcher said.
The APFSN President further expressed confidence that Senator Adeola would continue to provide purposeful leadership and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of Ogun State and Nigeria.
He prayed for many more years of good health, fulfilment, greater accomplishments and continued relevance in public service.
“Happy Birthday, Distinguished Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola. May your new age usher in greater opportunities, renewed strength and even greater impact in the service of humanity,” Fletcher added.