By Nnasom David

The Young Professionals Forum of Nigeria (YPFN) has formally written to the United States Embassy in Abuja, requesting that the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari, be denied entry into the United States.

In a letter addressed to Ambassador Richard M. Mills Jr., the Forum cited ongoing investigations involving Mr. Kyari and allegations bordering on abuse of office and financial impropriety.

The group expressed concern that allowing Mr. Kyari into the U.S. might undermine ongoing legal processes in Nigeria.

According to the Forum, Mr. Kyari was recently relieved of his duties by President Bola Tinubu following what the Forum described as “a string of corruption allegations” surrounding his tenure.

“We believe the allegations being investigated are serious and warrant careful consideration,” said Barrister Sambari Benjamin, Convener of the Forum.

“Until Mr. Kyari clears his name before the appropriate authorities, we respectfully request that the U.S. government exercises caution in granting him entry.”

The group referenced findings from Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which reportedly declared Mr. Kyari and others wanted in connection with mismanagement of public funds. The Forum expressed particular concern over the alleged diversion of funds meant for the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries and what it described as “unanswered questions” about the disbursement of large sums under his watch.

In the petition, the Forum further claimed that “credible information” suggests Mr. Kyari is seeking to enter the United States “to evade justice” and might attempt to present himself as a high-net-worth investor or victim of persecution.

“We are not accusing Mr. Kyari of guilt, but we believe that a person facing such significant allegations should remain within jurisdiction until investigations are concluded,” Benjamin added. “This will reinforce international cooperation in fighting corruption and preserving the integrity of legal systems.”