Farouk Ahmed denies allegations as Dangote feud deepens, probe looms

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Barbara Bako, Abuja.

The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed, on Wednesday issued a formal disclaimer distancing himself from allegations circulating in the public space, as the public dispute between him and billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote continues to escalate...

In the clarification, Ahmed categorically stated that statements attributed to him in connection with the allegations did not emanate from his office.

“I hereby state categorically that the so-called statement did not emanate from me,” he said.

Ahmed acknowledged awareness of what he described as “wild and scurrilous allegations” made against him, members of his family and friends, noting that the development had attracted wide attention due to the sensitivity of the petroleum industry.

He explained that he deliberately refrained from engaging in public exchanges, stressing that his role as a regulator required restraint and professionalism.

“I have opted not to engage in public participation,” Ahmed stated.

However, he disclosed that the individual behind the allegations has taken the matter to a formal investigative institution, a step he said he welcomed as it would allow for an objective and dispassionate examination of the issues raised.

“I believe that would provide an opportunity to dispassionately distil the issues and to clear my name,” he added.

The clarification follows public allegations by Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Industries Limited, who has accused the NMDPRA leadership of corruption and economic sabotage, particularly in relation to downstream petroleum regulation and fuel import licensing.

Dangote has also petitioned anti-corruption authorities, alleging financial impropriety by the regulator’s chief executive.

Beyond the personal allegations, the dispute has highlighted broader tensions over Nigeria’s downstream petroleum policy, including claims that regulatory actions have continued to favour fuel imports over domestic refining, despite the commencement of operations at the Dangote Refinery in Lekki.

The feud has drawn the attention of the House of Representatives, civil society organisations and industry stakeholders, some of whom have warned that the public confrontation could undermine investor confidence in Nigeria’s energy sector if not swiftly resolved.

While Dangote has insisted that his actions are driven by a desire to protect Nigeria’s economy and ensure regulatory accountability, Ahmed has maintained that due process should prevail and that the truth will emerge through investigation rather than public accusations.

As of Wednesday, no timeline had been given by investigative authorities on the outcome of the petitions before them.

Analysts say the resolution of the dispute could have significant implications for confidence in petroleum regulation and governance in Nigeria.