EFCC Opens Investigation Into Former NMDPRA Boss Following Dangote’s Petition

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has begun probing a petition filed against the former Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed, by Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group.

Reports indicate that Dangote formally submitted the petition to the EFCC earlier this week through his legal team, after withdrawing a similar complaint previously filed with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The initial petition to the ICPC requested an investigation into allegations that Ahmed spent approximately $5 million on his children’s secondary education in Switzerland—an amount reportedly inconsistent with his official earnings as a public officer. While the ICPC had announced intentions to continue its probe despite the withdrawal, Dangote chose to redirect the complaint to the EFCC.

A senior EFCC official at the agency’s Abuja headquarters, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the development, stating that the petition has been received and investigations are now underway.

“The petition has been submitted to us, and an investigation has commenced. Serious work is being carried out on it,” the source said.

The petition, signed by Dangote’s lead counsel Dr. O.J. Onoja (SAN), urged the EFCC to investigate allegations of abuse of office and corrupt enrichment against Ahmed, and to prosecute him if found culpable. It also noted that Dangote is prepared to provide documentary and other evidence to substantiate claims of financial misconduct and impunity by the former regulator.

“We make bold to state that the commission, along with sister agencies, is strategically positioned to prosecute financial crimes and corruption-related offences. Upon establishing a prima facie case, the courts have not hesitated to punish offenders,” the petition stated, referencing recent court rulings.

Onoja further called on the EFCC, led by Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede, to carry out a thorough investigation and take appropriate legal measures where necessary.

When reached for comment, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale declined to provide details but promised a response at a later time. No official statement had been released as of the filing of this report.