ActionAid Nigeria has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene urgently and order a public investigation into allegations of financial misconduct against Mr Farouk Ahmed, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
The allegations surfaced following media reports and whistleblower revelations by business mogul Alhaji Aliko Dangote. It is claimed that Mr Ahmed paid $5 million (around N7.5 billion) for the secondary education of four children. Dangote said the amount exceeds the legal income of a public official.
While the allegations are yet to be proven, ActionAid Nigeria described them as “grave and disturbing”. The group said they demand a transparent and independent investigation.
Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, said the case is a critical test of the Tinubu administration’s anti-corruption efforts. “Alhaji Aliko Dangote deserves commendation for blowing the whistle. Whistleblowers are the first line of defence against theft of public funds and must be protected,” he said. “Nigerians must follow the principle that if they ‘See Something, Say Something.’”
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Mamedu noted that the allegations reflect a wider problem in governance. Many politicians live far beyond their verified income. Luxury cars, private jets, large estates, and unrestrained spending have become normalised. Such behaviour undermines essential services like health, education, and infrastructure.
Mamedu also raised concerns about petroleum supply and pricing. “Nigeria still imports petroleum at higher costs than local refineries could provide if fully functional,” he said. “This benefits only a few, while ordinary Nigerians—particularly people with low income—are disadvantaged. The government must invest in functional local refineries, ensure fair pricing, and prevent monopolies that exploit citizens.”
ActionAid Nigeria’s Demands
The organisation outlined urgent actions:
- Mr Farouk Ahmed should respond to the allegations and provide full clarity.
- Public officials must submit verified asset declarations, accessible to citizens.
- The EFCC and ICPC should launch thorough investigations into officials living beyond their verified means.
- The National Assembly must ensure transparency in procurement, budgeting, and revenue management.
- The government must demonstrate commitment to fighting corruption, maintain local refineries, and ensure affordable petroleum prices.
- Citizens should monitor public resources, report corruption, and demand transparency from officials.
Mamedu warned that impunity among public officials erodes public trust and weakens democratic institutions. He emphasised that only decisive, transparent actions will restore confidence and show that no one is above the law.
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ActionAid Nigeria’s statement underlines the urgent need for accountability. It calls on both government and citizens to protect national resources and safeguard Nigeria’s democratic and economic integrity.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
