A coalition of civil society organisations has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and mandate a probe into serious allegations involving the head of a key petroleum regulatory agency.
Demand for Presidential and EFCC Action
The Empowerment for Unemployed Youth Initiative (EUYI) has formally requested that President Tinubu direct anti-graft agencies, specifically the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to investigate claims against Engr. Farouk Ahmed, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
The demand centres on a public claim, reportedly made by industrialist Alhaji Aliko Dangote, which questions the source of $5 million allegedly used to pay secondary school tuition fees for Ahmed's children. The group made this appeal at a press conference held in Abuja on Tuesday.
Public Trust and Accountability at Stake
Speaking at the event, the convener of EUYI, Comrade Momoh Prince, emphasised that the allegation has generated widespread public concern and requires immediate clarification from the authorities. He stressed that openness and accountability are fundamental to maintaining public confidence in governance.
"We are not here to try or condemn anyone," Prince stated. "However, given the seriousness of the allegation and the public office involved, we believe it is in the best interest of the country for the relevant authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly and independently."
Allegation Amidst National Economic Struggles
The coalition highlighted that the allegation resonates deeply because of Nigeria's current economic hardships, particularly within the education sector. They noted the stark contrast where millions of Nigerian children are out of school and families struggle with basic educational costs, while a public official is linked to such a colossal sum for school fees.
"In a country facing serious socio-economic pressures, any claim involving large sums of money by a public official naturally raises questions," Comrade Momoh Prince explained. "That is why we believe a transparent investigation will help clear doubts and reassure the public."
The group argued that a prompt and fact-based investigation would strengthen Nigeria's anti-corruption framework and reinforce trust in government institutions. They cautioned strongly against politicising the issue, stating that corruption allegations must not be ignored or exploited for partisan gain.
While expressing confidence in the government's capacity to handle the issue responsibly, EUYI appealed for timely action to prevent unnecessary public speculation and tension.
