The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended Umar Ajiya Isa, a former Chief Financial Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited, in connection with a massive financial scandal. The arrest is tied to an ongoing investigation into the alleged misappropriation of $7.2 billion earmarked for the rehabilitation of three key oil refineries in Kaduna, Warri, and Port Harcourt.
According to EFCC officials who briefed the media, Isa’s arrest is part of broader efforts to unravel corruption linked to the long-standing non-performance of these refineries. Despite repeated and substantial budget allocations for turnaround maintenance, the facilities have failed to deliver any output for several years, raising questions about the utilization of public funds.
The refineries, once considered vital to Nigeria’s oil infrastructure, have remained dormant, producing no refined petroleum products even as billions were reportedly spent on their upgrades. The EFCC is continuing its investigation to determine the extent of the financial impropriety and identify other individuals involved.
