THE Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called for a thorough investigation into allegations of corruption against the former Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Ahmed Farouk, despite his recent resignation from office.
Speaking today, NBA President Afam Osigwe said the allegations, which were publicly made by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, require proper scrutiny to protect public trust and ensure accountability.
Osigwe made the remarks while speaking to newsmen stressing that an investigation is necessary to establish the truth of the claims.
According to him, the controversy has become an embarrassment to public institutions and government, adding that it would be wrong for the matter to end without a clear resolution.
He noted that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) had indicated its intention to investigate the allegations, urging that the process should not be seen as a tool to quietly remove an official without due process.
Osigwe said a transparent probe would either clear Farouk’s name or confirm the allegations against him, emphasising that justice must be seen to be done.
Dangote had accused the former NMDPRA boss of corruption and economic sabotage, alleging that he spent millions of dollars in public funds on his children’s secondary school education in Switzerland.
The billionaire also submitted a petition to the ICPC, calling for Farouk’s arrest, investigation, and prosecution, and accusing him of living beyond his means as a public official.
In his petition, Dangote stated that Farouk, who spent his career in Nigeria’s public sector, could not have legitimately earned sums approaching the reported $7 million.
He further alleged that the former regulator used his position to divert public funds for personal benefit, claims that sparked protests and public outrage in recent days.
Farouk, who had earlier dismissed the allegations as “wild” and “spurious,” resigned shortly after meeting with President Bola Tinubu.