ICPC headquarters in Abuja as anti-graft agency invites Aliko Dangote over petition against former NMDPRA boss

ICPC Sets Up Panel to Probe Dangote’s Petition

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has invited Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, to appear before a panel of investigators on Monday in Abuja.

The invitation follows a petition Dangote submitted against Farouk Ahmed, the immediate past Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), alleging corruption and abuse of office.

A source within the Commission confirmed the development on Sunday, saying the ICPC has constituted a special panel to handle the matter.

ICPC Chairman Orders Focused Investigation

According to the source, the ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu, SAN, directed the investigative team to concentrate specifically on the allegations raised in Dangote’s petition.

The oil magnate is expected to either appear in person or be represented by his lawyer, Ogwu Onoja, SAN, when the investigation formally begins. He has also been asked to submit documentary evidence to support the claims made in his petition.

Allegations Against Former NMDPRA Chief

In the petition, Dangote accused Ahmed of corruption and misappropriation of public funds. One of the key allegations is that the former regulator spent millions of dollars on the education of his four children in Switzerland without proof of legitimate income to support such expenses.

Dangote also alleged that Ahmed undermined Nigeria’s domestic refining efforts by colluding with foreign oil traders and importers, particularly through the continued issuance of fuel import licences.

Resignation Will Not Stop Probe, ICPC Says

Although Farouk Ahmed has since resigned his position as head of the NMDPRA, the ICPC has made it clear that his exit from office will not halt the investigation.

The petition claims that more than seven million dollars was spent on the education of Ahmed’s children abroad, allegedly beyond what his lawful earnings as a public servant could justify.

Dangote is asking the anti-graft agency to arrest, investigate, and prosecute Ahmed for allegedly living above his means while in public service.

ICPC Confirms Receipt of Petition

ICPC spokesperson, John Okor Odey, confirmed that the Commission received the petition on December 16, 2025. He said it was submitted by Dangote through his legal representative and is now undergoing formal investigation.

What This Means Going Forward

The ICPC’s decision to summon Dangote marks a critical step in testing the credibility of the allegations and the strength of the evidence provided. The outcome of the probe could shape accountability within Nigeria’s petroleum regulatory space, especially at a time when transparency in the sector remains a national concern.