By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has invited billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote to provide evidence in connection with his corruption petition against former Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) boss Farouk Ahmed.
Dangote is expected to appear before the anti‑graft agency or send legal representation on Monday, December 22, 2025, as the ICPC begins a formal investigation into his complaint. The commission has also set up a special panel of investigators to handle the case.
The invitation follows a petition Dangote submitted through his lawyer, Ogwu Onoja (SAN), alleging that Farouk Ahmed engaged in corruption, abuse of office, and misappropriation of public funds.
In the petition, the industrialist accused the ex‑NMDPRA chief of spending more than $7 million on the foreign education of his four children; an amount Dangote says cannot be accounted for from lawful income as a public servant.
Dangote also alleged that Farouk’s actions constituted economic sabotage by undermining domestic refining efforts, particularly affecting the operations of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. He claims that the regulator colluded with international traders and fuel importers through the continuing issuance of import licences.
While Farouk Ahmed resigned from his position amid the controversy, the ICPC has confirmed that the probe will continue regardless of his resignation.
Under the ICPC Act 2000, abuse of office and corrupt enrichment are offences that can attract penalties including imprisonment if proven.
The commission has urged Dangote to submit all relevant documents supporting his claims so investigators can begin substantive work on the petition.
