The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed, has dismissed allegations made against him by the President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, describing them as false, misleading and without factual basis.
Speaking on the matter yesterday, Ahmed said the claims, which reportedly prompted an investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), were a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation and undermine the work of the regulatory authority. He maintained that he has conducted his duties with transparency, professionalism and strict adherence to the law since assuming office.
According to him, NMDPRA’s actions and decisions are guided solely by the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and existing regulatory frameworks, stressing that the authority does not act in favour of, or against, any individual or corporate entity. He added that all stakeholders in the oil and gas downstream sector are subject to the same rules and standards.
Ahmed said he has welcomed the ICPC probe, noting that it provides an opportunity to clear his name and set the record straight. He expressed confidence that the investigation would confirm that he has not engaged in any form of misconduct or abuse of office.
He also urged the public and industry stakeholders to avoid rushing to conclusions, assuring Nigerians that the authority remains committed to ensuring fairness, transparency and efficiency in regulating the midstream and downstream petroleum sectors.
The allegations emerged amid ongoing disagreements between regulators and operators in the oil and gas industry, particularly over licensing, pricing and operational compliance. While the ICPC is yet to make its findings public, the NMDPRA boss insisted that he has nothing to hide and will fully cooperate with investigators.
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