The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has invited billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote to appear before its investigators or send a representative to formally adopt and substantiate his petition alleging corruption against Farouk Ahmed, the immediate past Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
Sources within the ICPC confirmed that Dangote is expected to attend on Monday, December 22, or be represented by his lawyer, Ogwu Onoja (SAN). The commission has established a special panel of senior investigators to handle the case, with preparations reportedly completed and the panel approved by ICPC Chairman Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN).
The petition, submitted on December 16, accuses Ahmed of living beyond his legitimate means by allegedly spending over $7 million on the education of his four children at elite schools in Switzerland. Dangote further alleged that Ahmed engaged in economic sabotage by issuing import licenses for petroleum products, purportedly in collusion with international oil traders, undermining Nigeria’s local refining capacity.
Despite Ahmed’s recent resignation from the NMDPRA, ICPC officials stated that the investigation will proceed, emphasizing its public interest implications. “The resignation does not halt the probe,” a source said, adding that Dangote must provide supporting documents and evidence. Once the petition is formally adopted, Ahmed will be invited to respond.
The ICPC assured a fair and unbiased process under the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, with potential penalties of up to five years imprisonment upon conviction.
This development follows escalating tensions between Dangote Refinery and the NMDPRA earlier in 2025 over regulatory issues, including fuel quality standards and import licenses. The allegations remain under investigation, with no charges filed yet.