Rita Odafe
On Wednesday, public interest advocates and demonstrators gathered at the National Assembly, urging action against Farouk Ahmed, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
The group, which presented a petition to the leaders of the National Assembly, accused Ahmed of serious financial misconduct, conflicts of interest, and misusing his authority.
They called for an immediate investigation and legal action against him.
“We are here once more to insist on accountability and transparency from Mr. Farouk Ahmed,” stated Samuel Ihensekhien Esq, one of the leading attorneys.
“His conduct is a blatant violation of public trust, and it is time for him to be held accountable.”
The petition details several alarming claims against Ahmed, including accusations of misappropriating over $5 million of public money.
Additionally, they claim that Ahmed’s son, Faisal Ahmed, works for Oando PLC, a private company under NMDPRA’s regulatory purview, creating a stark conflict of interest.
“This is a prime example of corruption and misuse of power,” remarked Jnr Desmond Tabakwot Esq.
“We will not remain silent while public officials exploit resources and compromise our institutions.”
The demonstrators are insisting that Ahmed be suspended immediately, investigated, prosecuted, and have his assets frozen across the country.
“We will continue our fight until justice prevails,” added Dr. S M Oyeghe Esq.
“We call upon the National Assembly to take decisive measures to restore public confidence in our institutions and ensure public officials are held responsible for their actions.”
They also urged the National Assembly to initiate a prompt inquiry and recommend both Ahmed’s suspension and dismissal.
The lawyers additionally called for the freezing of Ahmed’s assets, both local and offshore, and for major reforms in the appointment and oversight processes for heads of regulatory bodies in the oil and gas sector.
This petition has garnered support from various civil society groups, including the Situation Room for Oil Sector Reforms, the Concerned Young Professionals Network, and the Coalition for Public Accountability (COPA), who have organized protests advocating for Ahmed’s suspension and prosecution.
The petitioners underscored that Ahmed’s actions signify a significant breach of his duties, a betrayal of the Nigerian public’s trust, and a severe violation of fiduciary responsibilities, asserting that his continued role jeopardizes transparency, accountability, and necessary reforms within the petroleum industry.
