ICPC Refuses to Stop Probe of Former NMDPRA Boss Despite Dangote’s Withdrawal

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has officially rejected a request by billionaire Aliko Dangote to withdraw his petition against Farouk Ahmed. Ahmed is the former Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). On Wednesday night, the anti-graft agency confirmed it received a letter from Dangote’s lawyers dated January 5, 2026, asking to cancel the complaint. However, the commission stated that its investigation into the allegations has already started and will not be stopped simply because the petitioner changed his mind.

In the original petition filed on December 16, 2025, Dangote accused the former NMDPRA boss of living far beyond his legitimate means as a public servant. The most shocking claim was that Farouk Ahmed allegedly spent over $7 million in public funds to pay for the education of his four children in Switzerland. The petition alleged that these fees were paid upfront for a six-year period, an amount Dangote argued could not be justified by Ahmed's legal earnings. Dangote further claimed that the funds were likely diverted from public coffers, which led to widespread public anger and protests against the regulatory body.

Dangote’s legal team informed the ICPC that they were withdrawing the petition because another law enforcement agency had reportedly taken over the matter. There are indications that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) may be looking into the case. Despite this, the ICPC insisted that it has a statutory mandate to see its own investigation to the end. The commission’s spokesperson, John Odey, explained that the agency must act in the interest of the Nigerian people and ensure full accountability. This stand shows that the ICPC is determined to prove it cannot be dictated to by any individual, no matter how powerful.
Farouk Ahmed, who has since resigned from his position at the NMDPRA, has previously described the allegations as "wild and spurious." He denied any wrongdoing and maintained that his actions as a public officer were within the law.

As the ICPC continues its work, many Nigerians are watching to see if the investigation will lead to a formal prosecution or if the case will eventually be merged with other ongoing inquiries.

Do you think the ICPC is right to continue the investigation even after Dangote asked to withdraw it? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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