Political activist Comrade Timi Frank has stated that the resignation of Engr. Farouk Ahmed as Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) must not halt investigations into serious corruption allegations linked to his tenure.
Resignation is Not an End to the Matter
Ahmed stepped down from his position on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, just hours before President Bola Tinubu announced a replacement. His exit followed public allegations, notably from businessman Alhaji Aliko Dangote, concerning the funding of his children's education abroad.
While welcoming the resignation, Frank, in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, December 18, argued that leaving office does not resolve the underlying issues. "Resignation isn't an admission of guilt, it's only the first step. What must follow is a full investigation and, where necessary, arrest and prosecution," Frank declared.
Urgent Call for EFCC and ICPC Action
Frank has urgently called on Nigeria's two primary anti-corruption bodies, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to launch an immediate and comprehensive probe.
He expressed deep concern over the agencies' silence days after the allegations became public, warning that such inaction creates an impression of reluctance and undermines institutional credibility. "More than 72 hours after these weighty allegations were made public, the silence of our anti-corruption agencies is deeply troubling and unacceptable," he stated.
Frank emphasized the gravity of the accusations, which involve an estimated $7 million. He questioned how a public servant could manage such expenditure on a official salary, especially when millions of Nigerian parents struggle with school fees.
Broader Implications for Governance and Investment
The activist warned that failing to properly address these allegations has consequences beyond this single case. He cautioned that unresolved questions surrounding a key sector regulator could damage Nigeria's international image and weaken investor confidence.
"If Aliko Dangote cannot get justice in a matter of this nature, then one must ask what hope is left for ordinary Nigerians," Frank remarked, highlighting the need for the equal application of the law.
He noted that Ahmed has indicated a willingness to cooperate with investigators and urged the EFCC and ICPC to act without further delay. Frank also suggested that President Bola Tinubu should intervene if the agencies continue to stall.
"This is one case Nigerians won't allow to be buried. Only transparent investigation and prosecution can restore confidence in our institutions and in the fight against corruption," Frank concluded.
