The controversies surrounding the huge tuition fees paid by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA, chairman, Farouk Ahmed, on his children’s education abroad, a non-governmental organisation, ActionAid Nigeria, has requested presidential engagement and an independent public review of allegations raised by the President of Dangote, Aliko Dangote, against the agency’s boss.
The group, while arguing that the probe will reinforce accountability and transparency, added that an investigation into the allegations against Farouk would strengthen institutional integrity, citizen trust, and democratic governance nationwide.
The country director of ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu, made the request in a statement made available to the media in Abuja yesterday.
Mamedu referenced media reports alleging education expenses for four children, noting that the claims remain unproven, while encouraging calm, lawful scrutiny that upholds due process, fairness, and respect for all parties involved.
Mamedu urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission to begin an immediate, thorough, and transparent investigation, with findings publicly disclosed.
ActionAid Nigeria commended Aliko Dangote for responsibly raising concerns, highlighting the positive civic value of speaking up, and encouraging citizens, professionals, and businesses to report suspected wrongdoing in good faith.
He emphasized the protection of whistleblowers, describing them as essential partners in safeguarding public resources, strengthening accountability systems, and fostering a culture in which ethical conduct is rewarded and corruption is consistently discouraged nationwide.
Mamedu observed that the allegations invited broader reflection on governance, promoting reforms that encouraged modest leadership, verifiable incomes, and responsible stewardship, helping reduce inequality and expand opportunities for all Nigerians nationwide.
He highlighted petroleum supply concerns, supporting investment in functional local refineries to achieve fair pricing, energy security, and reduced import dependence, ensuring that vulnerable Nigerians benefit from competitive, transparent market practices.
ActionAid noted that ending impunity would strengthen democracy, restore trust in institutions, and reaffirm public service as a platform for national development, professionalism, and inclusive growth rather than personal enrichment nationwide.
The organisation encouraged prompt clarification from the official concerned, alongside strengthened asset declarations, verification, and public access, empowering citizens, legislators, and oversight bodies to collaboratively advance transparency and accountable governance nationwide.
ActionAid called on Nigerians to actively monitor public resources, engage institutions constructively, report concerns responsibly, and sustain collective demand for accountability, fairness, and effective service delivery across all levels of government.
