The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has formally invited Africa’s richest businessman, Aliko Dangote, to appear before its investigators or delegate a legal representative to substantiate allegations of corruption against Farouk Ahmed, the immediate past Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
According to sources familiar with the matter, Dangote is expected to honour the invitation on Monday, December 22, either in person or through his counsel, Chief Ogwu Onoja (SAN). The anti-graft agency has reportedly constituted a special panel of senior investigators to handle the petition, following approval by the ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN).
The petition, dated December 16, alleges that Ahmed lived beyond his lawful earnings, claiming he spent more than $7 million on the education of his four children in prestigious institutions in Switzerland. Dangote further accused the former regulator of actions amounting to economic sabotage, alleging that petroleum import licenses were issued in a manner that favoured foreign traders and weakened Nigeria’s domestic refining capacity.
ICPC officials disclosed that Ahmed’s recent resignation from office does not affect the ongoing investigation, stressing that the matter remains of significant public interest. They noted that Dangote would be required to formally adopt the petition and submit verifiable documents to support the claims, after which Ahmed would be invited to respond.
The commission reiterated its commitment to due process and impartiality, stating that the investigation is being conducted in line with the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act. If proven, the alleged offences could attract penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years.
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The probe comes amid prolonged regulatory tensions earlier in 2025 between the Dangote Refinery and the NMDPRA over issues such as fuel quality benchmarks and the issuance of import permits. While investigations are ongoing, the ICPC emphasized that no charges have been filed and all allegations remain subject to verification.