ICPC Insists on Probing Ex-NMDPRA Boss Despite Withdrawal of Dangote’s Petition

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has reaffirmed its decision to press ahead with investigations into allegations involving Engineer Farouk Ahmed, the immediate past head of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), despite the withdrawal of a petition by industrialist Aliko Dangote.

The anti-corruption agency confirmed that it received a formal notice withdrawing the complaint earlier submitted against the former regulator boss. The letter, dated January 5, 2026, stated that the petition had been withdrawn in its entirety and that the matter was being addressed by another security agency.

Nevertheless, the ICPC said the development would not affect its ongoing inquiry, stressing that investigations already underway cannot be terminated simply because a petitioner steps back. The commission noted that it is empowered by law to pursue cases of alleged misconduct once they fall within its mandate.

According to the ICPC, its continued action is driven by the need to uphold transparency and accountability in public office, adding that allegations of corruption must be thoroughly examined in the public interest.

The withdrawn petition had accused Ahmed of corruption and financial irregularities, allegations he has denied.