The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has invited the Dangote Group for questioning over a petition involving the former Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed.
The petition, reportedly submitted by a concerned citizen, accuses Ahmed of abuse of office and alleged improper dealings with major oil marketers, including Dangote Group. It claims that during his tenure, Ahmed favored selected companies in fuel importation and distribution contracts, allegedly bypassing due process.
ICPC sources said the commission invited Dangote Group representatives to clarify the company’s involvement in some of the deals listed in the petition. The commission also plans to interview other marketers and NMDPRA officials connected to the case.
An ICPC official, who spoke anonymously, said the investigation is in its early stages. He explained that the agency is verifying claims before deciding on further steps. He added that the petition raised serious concerns about transparency in petroleum product supply.
The Dangote Group has not released an official statement, but a company source confirmed awareness of the invitation and expressed willingness to cooperate with investigators.
Farouk Ahmed served as the pioneer head of the NMDPRA after the scrapping of PPPRA and DPR. His tenure drew both commendation and criticism, particularly around the fuel subsidy removal era.
ICPC insists the probe aims to ensure accountability in the sector and has promised a fair, fact-based process.
