Protesters Storm UAE Embassy in Abuja, Demand Ex-NNPC Boss Mele Kyari’s Deportation

A group of protesters under the Young Professionals Forum (YPF) on Thursday staged a demonstration at the United Arab Emirates (UAE) embassy in Abuja, calling for the deportation of Mele Kyari, former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.

The group accused Kyari of corruption and economic sabotage during his tenure and demanded that he be returned to Nigeria to face ongoing investigations.

Speaking on behalf of the forum, Barrister Sambari Benjamin alleged that Kyari obstructed local refining efforts, ignored national interests, and personally profited at the country’s expense.

“We believe that Mele Kyari’s actions have brought shame to our nation,” Benjamin said. “His alleged corrupt practices have crippled productivity, drained foreign reserves, and exposed citizens to unsafe petroleum products.”

The YPF urged the UAE to deny Kyari residency or asylum, warning that granting him refuge would undermine Nigeria’s judicial process and embolden impunity among public officials.

“The message would be clear — that accountability is optional and justice can be evaded by the wealthy elite,” Benjamin added. “We strongly call on the UAE to reject any bid by Kyari for asylum or permanent stay.”