The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr Farouk Ahmed, has publicly disowned a lengthy statement circulating online that purports to be his official response to recent corruption allegations. He insists the document did not come from him.
Formal Disclaimer Issued to The Guardian
In a formal disclaimer made available to The Guardian on 17 December 2025, Engr Ahmed categorically distanced himself from the detailed narrative. The viral statement had sought to address his career history, financial status, regulatory decisions, and the funding of his children's overseas education.
"My attention has been drawn to a purported response I was said to have made on the recent allegations against my person. I hereby state categorically that the so-called statement did not emanate from me," the NMDPRA boss stated.
Preference for Institutional Process Over Public Debate
Ahmed acknowledged he is aware of the serious allegations and the public frenzy they have generated. However, he explained his deliberate choice to avoid engaging in a public spat.
"While I am aware of the wild and spurious allegations made against me and my family and the frenzy it has generated, as a regulator of a sensitive industry, I have opted not to engage in public brickbat," he said.
He added that the petitioner had already taken the matter to a formal investigative body. Ahmed believes this provides the right platform for an objective examination and a chance to clear his name.
Content of the Fake Statement and Source of Controversy
The disowned statement, which spread across social media and several online platforms, was several pages long. It presented itself as Ahmed's formal rebuttal. It attempted to tackle:
- Allegations about the source of funds for his children's foreign education.
- Details of his decades-long career in Nigeria's petroleum regulatory sector.
- A defence of regulatory decisions made under his watch, particularly concerning import licensing and supply security.
- Extensive commentary on regulatory independence, the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), and resistance from vested commercial interests.
The controversy originates from a petition submitted to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) by the President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote. The petition accuses the NMDPRA chief of corruption, abuse of office, and owning unexplained wealth.
Implications and Calls for Restraint
This scandal has intensified scrutiny of the petroleum regulator during a period of high tension in Nigeria's energy sector, especially around fuel supply, pricing, and import licensing. The ICPC has acknowledged receipt of the petition, marking the start of formal review processes.
The issue has also drawn attention from lawmakers, civil society organisations, and industry stakeholders. Many are advocating for due process and institutional restraint.
By issuing only a disclaimer and not a point-by-point rebuttal, Engr Ahmed underscores his stated preference for allowing investigative authorities to handle the matter. His position emphasises trust in institutional processes over public defence, amid concerns that escalating media exchanges could further politicise the issue.
