The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has invited business mogul, Aliko Dangote, to appear before its panel of investigators in Abuja on Monday, August 22, over a petition he submitted against a former government official.
Dangote had petitioned the commission against the former Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Ahmed Farouk, alleging corruption and abuse of office.
Confirming the development, the ICPC spokesperson, John Odey, said the commission received a formal petition from Dangote through his lawyer on Dec. 16, calling for an investigation into the activities of the former NMDPRA chief.
According to him, the ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu (SAN), has directed investigators to give due attention to the petition as part of the commission’s mandate to probe allegations of corruption.
Dangote is expected to appear in person or be represented by his lawyer, Ogwu Onoja, and to present relevant evidence when the investigation formally begins.
In the petition, Dangote accused Farouk of corruption and misappropriation of public funds, alleging that the former official spent millions of dollars on the education of his four children in exclusive schools in Switzerland without verifiable lawful income.
He further alleged that Farouk undermined domestic refining efforts by colluding with international oil traders and importers through the continued issuance of petroleum import licences.
The ICPC said Dangote has been asked to submit all supporting documents and evidence to aid the investigation, stressing that the commission would conduct the probe fairly and transparently.
Although Farouk has since resigned his appointment, the commission noted that his resignation does not affect the ongoing investigation.
The petition specifically alleges that Farouk expended more than seven million dollars on his children’s education abroad, an amount Dangote claims is inconsistent with his known income as a public servant. Dangote is therefore seeking Farouk’s arrest, investigation, and prosecution for allegedly living beyond his means.
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