NMDPRA Boss Disowns Response, Welcomes ICPC Probe

Engr. Farouk Ahmed, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), has categorically disowned a statement circulating on social media that claimed to be his official defense against corruption allegations. In a disclaimer issued via the NMDPRA’s official X account on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, Ahmed clarified that the purported response, which detailed his personal finances and his children’s scholarships, did not emanate from him.

The controversy stems from a high-profile petition submitted to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) by Aliko Dangote, president of the Dangote Group. Dangote has accused the regulator of “economic sabotage” and alleged that Ahmed spent upwards of $7 million on his four children’s education in Switzerland—an amount Dangote claims is inconsistent with the legitimate income of a career civil servant. The billionaire industrialist has called for Ahmed’s arrest and prosecution, suggesting that the funds were derived from corrupt enrichment and the abuse of office.

Addressing the “wild and spurious allegations” for the first time through a formal channel, Ahmed explained his decision to remain largely silent in the face of public scrutiny. He noted that as a regulator of a sensitive and strategic industry, engaging in a “public brickbat” or media war would be inappropriate and counterproductive. Instead, he expressed relief that the matter has been moved from the court of public opinion to a formal investigative institution.

“I have opted not to engage in public brickbat,” Ahmed stated. “Thankfully, the person behind the allegations has taken it to a formal investigative institution. I believe that would provide an opportunity to dispassionately distill the issues and to clear my name.” His stance signals a preference for a legal and administrative resolution rather than a back-and-forth exchange with the business mogul.

The ICPC confirmed receipt of Dangote’s petition on Tuesday and has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into the claims. The rift between the two figures has deepened since July 2024, when the NMDPRA chief publicly questioned the quality of products from local refineries, including the Dangote plant. With the anti-graft agency now involved, the industry awaits a formal inquiry that could either vindicate the regulator or lend credence to the billionaire’s explosive claims.