The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced a formal investigation into allegations of corruption against Farouk Ahmed, the former Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
This followed a petition filed last week by business mogul, Aliko Dangote through his legal team.
According to a senior EFCC source in Abuja, who spoke with PUNCH on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly, “They have brought the petition to us, and an investigation has commenced on it. Serious work is being done concerning it.”
The petition against Ahmed accuses him of abuse of office and corrupt enrichment, centred on allegations that he spent about $5 million on secondary education in Switzerland for his four children — a figure Dangote’s lawyers say far exceeds the legitimate means of a public officer.
In the legal submission signed by lead counsel Dr O.J. Onoja, Dangote urged the EFCC, under the leadership of Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede, to investigate and prosecute Ahmed if evidence supports the claims.
“We make bold to state that the commission is strategically positioned, along with sister agencies, to prosecute financial crimes and corruption-related offences, and upon establishing a prima facie case, the courts do not hesitate to punish offenders,” the petition read.
Dangote’s legal team also noted that the move to lodge the complaint with the EFCC followed the withdrawal of a similar petition earlier filed at the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC)—a tactical decision aimed at speeding up the prosecution process.
Although Dangote withdrew from the ICPC, that agency said it would continue its own investigation.
The allegations have generated public debate in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, which has been under scrutiny for regulatory practices, investor relations, and economic interests.
Dangote’s complaint highlights concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the integrity of regulatory oversight when senior officials appear to live far beyond their legitimate income.
Despite repeated attempts by reporters to contact EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale for an official response, he declined comment at the time of filing but promised a statement.
Legal observers say the case could hinge on financial records, asset declarations and evidence of misappropriation if any.
