ActionAid Nigeria has described recent media reports calling for a probe into the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Mr. Farouk Ahmed, as a matter of urgent national and economic importance. The civil society organisation said the allegations raise serious concerns about accountability and public trust in governance, especially in a country facing deep economic pressure and widespread hardship.

According to ActionAid Nigeria, the alleged payment of 5 million dollars, estimated at about N7.5 billion, for the secondary education of four children has triggered public outrage and questions about living far beyond legitimate means.

While stressing that the claims remain allegations, the organisation said they are grave and disturbing, and deserve urgent attention from relevant authorities. It noted that such allegations demand transparency, integrity, and accountability from those holding public office.

The group said the situation presents a critical test for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly its stated commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring that public officials serve national interests rather than personal enrichment. ActionAid Nigeria said allegations of this magnitude strike directly at public confidence in government and democratic institutions, and therefore require an immediate, transparent, and independent response.

ActionAid Nigeria called on independent anti-graft agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to commence a comprehensive investigation into the matter. The organisation stressed that the findings of such investigations must be made public in order to restore confidence and show clearly that no individual is above the law.

Speaking in Abuja, the Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu, praised the role of whistleblowers in exposing alleged wrongdoing. He said, “ActionAid Nigeria wholeheartedly applauds Alhaji Aliko Dangote for taking the courageous step of blowing the whistle on this potentially colossal act of financial impropriety. His action demonstrates the vital principle that if Nigerians ‘See Something, it is best to Say Something.’”

Mamedu called on citizens, private sector players, and public service professionals who have evidence of corruption to speak out. He said whistleblowers are the first line of defence against the theft of public resources and must be protected and encouraged to come forward without fear.

He added, “While this allegation targets a high-ranking regulatory official, it reflects a deeper, systemic crisis in governance. The extravagant lifestyle of many politicians and public office holders far exceeding their verifiable incomes has become a national embarrassment and a driver of poverty and inequality.”

He said the open display of wealth through private jets, large estates, luxury vehicles, and unchecked spending without accountability normalises the diversion of public resources meant for health, education, and infrastructure.

Mamedu also raised concerns about petroleum supply and pricing in Nigeria. He said the country continues to import petroleum products at prices higher than what local refineries could achieve if they were fully functional. According to him, while importation benefits a few players, it places a heavy burden on ordinary Nigerians, particularly the poor and vulnerable. He said fair pricing must protect citizens, promote local production, and avoid monopolies.

He added that the government must urgently invest in maintaining functional refineries, establish more local refining capacity, and ensure Nigerians benefit from the country’s natural resources instead of being exploited by import driven market distortions. He further noted that a culture of impunity creates the impression that public office is mainly an avenue for wealth accumulation rather than selfless service, which continues to weaken trust in the rule of law.

ActionAid Nigeria called for systemic reforms to address corruption and rebuild public trust. The organisation said Mr. Farouk Ahmed must respond immediately to the allegations and provide full clarity. It also urged the Federal Government to strengthen mandatory public asset declarations, ensure verification, and make them accessible to citizens.

The group said EFCC and ICPC must investigate officials living beyond verified means, while the National Assembly should enforce transparency in procurement, budgets, and revenue management. Citizens were urged to monitor public resources, report corruption, and demand accountability at all levels.