ICPC Proceeds with Investigation into Former NMDPRA CEO Despite Withdrawal of Dangote Petition

Nigeria’s Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has affirmed its commitment to continuing the investigation into allegations of corruption against Engineer Farouk Ahmed, the immediate past Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), notwithstanding the formal withdrawal of the initiating petition by Aliko Dangote.

In a statement issued by ICPC spokesperson J. Okor Odey, the Commission confirmed receipt of a letter dated January 5, 2026, from Dangote’s legal counsel, Dr. O.J. Onoja (SAN), notifying the withdrawal of the petition originally filed on December 16, 2025. The letter indicated that the petition was withdrawn in its entirety, with another law enforcement agency having assumed responsibility for related aspects of the case.

However, the ICPC emphasised that its probe, initiated under Sections 3(14) and 27(3) of its enabling Act, is proceeding independently in the public interest. “Investigations in the interest of the Nigerian people and the Nigerian state have already commenced and are presently ongoing,” the statement read, underscoring the Commission’s mandate to promote transparency and accountability in the petroleum sector.

The original petition from Dangote alleged financial impropriety, including claims that Ahmed expended substantial public funds—reportedly exceeding $7 million—on personal matters without verifiable lawful income sources. Ahmed, who stepped down from his role late last year amid the controversy, has not publicly responded to the latest developments.

This case highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen governance and anti-corruption measures in Nigeria’s critical downstream oil and gas industry, a cornerstone of the continent’s energy landscape. As Africa’s leading energy platform, we will continue to monitor developments for their implications on regulatory integrity and sector stability.