Dangote Industries Limited (DIL) today announced that its Chairman, Aliko Dangote, has submitted a new petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against Engr. Farouk Ahmed, the former Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
This action follows the withdrawal of a similar petition from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) earlier this week.
The petition accuses Ahmed of gross abuse of office, corruption, and financial impropriety during his tenure at NMDPRA. DIL alleges that Ahmed engaged in activities that undermined Nigeria's economic interests, including the diversion of public funds for personal gain.
Specific claims include the expenditure of up to $7 million on school fees for Ahmed's children at an elite institution in Switzerland, which DIL asserts constitutes a violation of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers.
DIL initially filed the petition with the ICPC on December 16, 2025, through its legal representative, Ogwu James Onoja, SAN. However,the company withdrew the complaint on January 5, 2026, citing concerns over potential interference.
Sources indicate that Ahmed's wife holds a senior position within the ICPC, raising questions about impartiality in the investigation.
In a letter addressed to EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede, DIL urged the commission to conduct a swift and thorough probe. The petition references legal precedents, such as the Supreme Court case of Lawan v.
Federal Republic of Nigeria (2023), to emphasize the need for accountability in public service. DIL has pledged to provide all necessary evidence to support the allegations and assist in the investigation.
Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Industries Limited, stated: "We remain committed to fostering transparency and integrity in Nigeria's petroleum sector.
These allegations, if proven, represent a serious betrayal of public trust and hinder our nation's progress toward energy self-sufficiency. We trust the EFCC will handle this matter with the urgency it deserves."
This development comes amid ongoing tensions in Nigeria's oil industry, where Dangote Refinery has faced regulatory challenges. DIL emphasizes that the petition aims to expose systemic issues and promote fair competition, ultimately benefiting Nigerian consumers and the economy.
Dangote Industries Limited calls on all stakeholders to support anti-corruption efforts and awaits the EFCC's response.