The Senate of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has reiterated its call for the suspension of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed, over allegations of corruption.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the President of the NANS Senate, Usman Nagwaza, the association dismissed attempts to discredit its position, insisting that it remains focused on accountability and good governance.
Nagwaza noted that the renewed call for Ahmed’s suspension followed what the association described as ongoing efforts by detractors to undermine its demand for transparency in the investigation process.
“Since we made our initial call for the suspension of Farouk Ahmed pending investigation, there have been several attempts to distract and frustrate our stance,” the statement read.
NANS emphasized that it would not bow to pressure or intimidation, adding that it intends to follow the matter to its conclusion.
“We want to state clearly that we are resolute in our demand for the suspension of Farouk Ahmed. We will not be distracted. We are committed to seeing this case through until justice is achieved,” Nagwaza said.
According to the student body, the allegations against Ahmed are serious and raise concerns about his suitability to remain in office during the investigation.
“The issues raised against him are weighty and call into question his integrity and fitness to hold public office. It is only right that he steps aside to allow for a thorough and independent investigation,” NANS added.
The association also renewed its appeal to President Bola Tinubu to take urgent action, stressing that suspending Ahmed would ensure a fair and transparent process.
“We urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act immediately and suspend Farouk Ahmed pending the outcome of investigations. Nigerians deserve clarity and fairness in this matter,” the statement continued.
NANS called on citizens to support its demand for accountability, saying the public deserves to know the truth behind the allegations.
“We are calling on Nigerians to stand with us. We will not be silenced, and we will continue to push until those responsible for any wrongdoing are held accountable,” it stated.
The association also warned those attempting to derail its campaign to stop, saying their efforts would fail.
NANS revealed that it is closely observing the situation as the countdown continues on the 72-hour ultimatum it issued earlier to the authorities.
“We are monitoring developments as our ultimatum winds down. Once it expires, we will not hesitate to take further action, including nationwide mobilisation of our structures, to ensure that justice is done,” the statement concluded.
NANS reaffirmed that it will stay on the matter until a final and just outcome is achieved.
