Fresh concerns have emerged over the leadership of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), as new calls have been made for an urgent investigation into its Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Farouk Ahmed.
A public petition titled “Urgent Inquiry into the Conduct of Engr. Farouk Ahmed” has been submitted to relevant authorities, demanding answers and immediate action on longstanding allegations of corruption, bias, and administrative malpractice involving the NMDPRA boss.
According to the statement, signed by concerned stakeholders, Engr. Ahmed has been repeatedly accused of bribery, favouritism in staff promotions, selective training opportunities, and misuse of power — yet remains in office.
“Why are drastic actions not taken concerning the numerous allegations of bribery and corruption against Engr. Farouk Ahmed?” the petition queried, also demanding accountability from the Presidency, National Assembly, and anti-graft agencies.
The document raises five critical questions, challenging why regulatory bodies have seemingly ignored persistent reports of misconduct under Ahmed’s leadership. It accuses top management of enabling unethical practices and expresses frustration over the failure of oversight institutions to act.
“Is Engr. Ahmed above the law and the principles of accountability that govern all public officials?” the petition asks, stressing that continued inaction “sends a dangerous message that corruption and abuse of power are tolerated.”
Describing the current silence over the matter as unacceptable, the petition warns that public confidence in governance and regulatory transparency is rapidly eroding.
Efforts to reach Engr. Ahmed for comment as of press time were unsuccessful. Officials at NMDPRA have also yet to respond to the latest developments.
This is not the first time Engr. Ahmed has faced such allegations. In recent months, several industry unions and internal whistleblowers have raised similar concerns without visible follow-up action from government institutions.
As pressure mounts, all eyes are now on the Presidency, the National Assembly, and anti-corruption agencies like the EFCC and ICPC to address the situation and ensure that justice and accountability are upheld within one of Nigeria’s most critical regulatory institutions.
