ActionAid backs calls for probe of NMDPRA Chief over corruption claims

ActionAid Nigeria has joined growing demands for an investigation into the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Mr. Farouk Ahmed, describing the matter as one of urgent national and economic concern.

In a statement issued by its Country Director, Dr. Andrew Mamedu, the organisation said allegations against the NMDPRA boss—particularly claims of a $5 million (about ₦7.5 billion) payment for the secondary education of four children—raise troubling questions about possible living far beyond lawful income.

Although stressing that the claims are still allegations, Mamedu described them as serious and unsettling, insisting they warrant accountability, transparency, and integrity from those entrusted with public office.

According to him, the case represents a major test of President Bola Tinubu’s anti-corruption agenda and the administration’s commitment to ensuring that public officials act in the public interest rather than for personal gain. He said allegations of such scale undermine public confidence and require a swift, open, and independent response.

ActionAid Nigeria therefore urged anti-graft agencies—the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC)—to immediately commence a thorough investigation, with findings made public to reassure Nigerians that no individual is above the law.

Speaking in Abuja, Mamedu commended billionaire industrialist Alhaji Aliko Dangote for drawing attention to the matter, describing his action as a courageous example of whistleblowing. He called on Nigerians across all sectors who have evidence of corruption to speak out, noting that whistleblowers play a critical role in protecting public resources and must be supported.

He further argued that the allegations highlight a wider governance challenge, pointing to the growing culture of extravagant lifestyles among public officials that far exceed verifiable incomes. Such displays of wealth, he said, have become a national embarrassment and contribute to poverty and inequality by diverting funds meant for vital sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Mamedu also raised concerns about Nigeria’s petroleum supply and pricing structure, noting that continued dependence on costly imports benefits only a few while placing an unfair burden on ordinary Nigerians. He called on government to prioritise functional local refineries, encourage domestic production, prevent monopolistic practices, and ensure fair pricing that protects citizens, particularly the poor and vulnerable.

According to ActionAid, the persistence of impunity in public service reinforces the perception that political office is a pathway to personal enrichment rather than selfless service, further eroding trust in democratic institutions and the rule of law.

The organisation therefore called for far-reaching reforms to combat corruption and rebuild public confidence. Among its demands are that Mr. Farouk Ahmed should promptly respond to the allegations with full disclosure; the Federal Government should strengthen mandatory asset declaration processes and make them publicly accessible; the EFCC and ICPC should intensify investigations into officials living beyond their means; and the National Assembly should enforce greater transparency in public procurement, budgeting, and revenue management.

ActionAid Nigeria also urged the Federal Government to move beyond rhetoric by demonstrating real commitment to anti-corruption efforts, ensuring functional refineries, fair fuel pricing, and efficient resource management that benefits all Nigerians. Citizens, it added, must remain vigilant, report corruption, demand accountability, and actively defend public resources in the national interest.