The Nigerian Senate has clarified that it did not authorise any arrest warrant against former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari, amid the ongoing probe into an alleged N210 trillion discrepancy.
The clarification followed concerns over reports that the Senate Committee on Public Accounts had recommended Kyari’s arrest for failing to appear before it.
During plenary, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele stressed that no committee possesses the authority to issue or enforce an arrest warrant without the express approval of the Senate President and strict adherence to existing laws.
He emphasised that such powers must be exercised within the provisions of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, noting that due process and the presumption of innocence remain fundamental principles.
The Senate also dissociated itself from comments made by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who had described the NNPCL as a group of criminals, stating that the remark does not reflect the official position of the chamber.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin supported the clarification, reiterating that committees operate under the authority of the Senate and can only make recommendations rather than exercise independent powers.
Other lawmakers, including Mohammed Tahir Monguno and Abba Moro, cautioned against statements capable of damaging reputations or undermining public trust in the legislature.
Former Kebbi State governor, Adamu Aliero, criticised the comments as inappropriate, warning that such statements could negatively affect Nigeria’s global investment image.
Similarly, Orji Uzor Kalu urged restraint, highlighting the strategic importance of the NNPCL to the nation’s economy.
Responding to the criticism, Oshiomhole maintained that his remarks were made in defence of the Senate following alleged attacks on lawmakers, adding that he would comply if required to issue an apology.
The Senate subsequently resolved to formally distance itself from both the alleged arrest recommendation and the controversial remarks, reaffirming its commitment to due process and institutional discipline.
