The Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) will continue its ICPC probe NMDPRA chief investigation. This is despite Aliko Dangote withdrawing his corruption complaint against Farouk Ahmed.
The agency confirmed this in a statement on Wednesday. Its Head of Media, Okor Odey, said the probe remains active. The statement followed a January 5 letter from Dangote’s lawyer, O.J. Onoja. The letter formally retracted the December 16, 2025 petition.
Dangote’s team claimed another agency had taken over the case. However, the ICPC dismissed this as a reason to halt its work.
“The ICPC states clearly that investigations are already ongoing,” the statement read. It cited Sections 3(14) and 27(3) of its enabling Act. These sections allow it to act in the public interest—regardless of a complainant’s stance.
Dangote had accused Ahmed of corruption and economic sabotage. He alleged Ahmed’s import policies hurt Nigeria’s refining capacity. Specifically, they impacted his $19 billion Lagos refinery.
Ahmed denied all charges. He argued that open import permits ensure fair competition. He also insisted Nigeria’s fuel supply must not be monopolized.
Later, Dangote questioned Ahmed’s lifestyle. He pointed to his children’s overseas education as suspicious. Shortly after, President Bola Tinubu removed Ahmed from office on December 17.
Now, even after Dangote’s withdrawal—just weeks post-removal—the ICPC refuses to close the case. “We will continue in the interest of transparency and accountability,” the agency said.
This shows the ICPC’s intent to act independently. The ICPC probe NMDPRA chief case tests Nigeria’s anti-corruption resolve in the oil sector.
