Legal Counsel to Aliko Dangote Withdraws Petition Against Ex-NMDPRA CEO; ICPC Confirms Investigation Continues
Dr. O.J. Onoja, SAN, legal representative of Aliko Dangote, has formally informed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) that the petition filed against Engineer Farouk Ahmed, former ACE/CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), has been fully withdrawn.
The notice, dated January 5, 2025, and titled “Notice of Withdrawal of Petition against Engineer Farouk Ahmed,” stated that another government agency has now assumed responsibility for the investigation.
Despite the withdrawal, the ICPC confirmed that its own investigation into the matter will continue. John Odey, the commission’s spokesperson, said the agency remains committed to acting in the public interest.
Odey said:
“The ICPC has received a letter from Dr. O.J. Onoja, SAN and Associates, withdrawing the petition originally submitted on December 16, 2025, against Engineer Farouk Ahmed. The letter also indicates that another law enforcement agency has taken over the investigation.
“However, in line with Sections 3(14) and 27(3) of the ICPC Act, our investigations, conducted in the interest of the Nigerian people and the state, have already begun and remain ongoing.
“The ICPC will continue to pursue this matter as part of its statutory mandate to promote transparency, accountability, and the fight against corruption for the benefit of Nigeria.”
