The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has formally requested that prominent businessman Aliko Dangote appear before its investigative panel on Monday in Abuja. This follows a petition he submitted accusing Ahmed Farouk, the former Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), of corruption.
A reliable source within the commission confirmed that the ICPC has established a specialized team of investigators to thoroughly examine the allegations. Dr. Musa Aliyu (SAN), Chairman of the ICPC, has directed the panel to prioritize the probe into Dangote’s petition.
Dangote is expected to either appear in person or be represented by his legal counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Ogwu Onoja, to present evidence supporting the claims. The allegations levelled against Farouk include corruption, misappropriation of funds, and the unauthorized expenditure of millions of dollars on the education of his four children at prestigious schools in Switzerland.
Further accusations suggest that Farouk undermined local refining efforts by conspiring with international traders and oil importers, continuing the issuance of import licenses in a manner detrimental to domestic production.
Despite Farouk’s resignation from his position, the ICPC has confirmed that the investigation will proceed unaffected. The commission has requested Dangote to submit all relevant evidence to support the claims, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring a fair and impartial inquiry for all parties involved.
Dangote’s petition specifically alleges that Farouk spent in excess of seven million dollars on his children’s overseas education without any lawful source of income to justify such expenditures. The petition calls for Farouk’s arrest, investigation, and prosecution for allegedly living beyond his means while holding public office.
ICPC Summons Aliko Dangote Over Petition Against Former NMDPRA Boss
