The Concerned Young Professionals Network, is insisting on the investigation of Engineer Farouk Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) over alleged corruption, abuse of power, and regulatory compromise.
The group’s protest at the headquarters of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), entered its second day on Tuesday.
Comrade Innocent Ofonyi, National President of the group,who petitioned a the ICPC, queried how Ahmed, a public official, could afford to pay huge sum for his children’s tuition fees abroad, sparking concerns about his financial dealings and potential conflict of interest.
The group alleged that Ahmed’s son was hired by Oando Plc, a company under NMDPRA’s regulatory jurisdiction, raising concerns about nepotism and undue influence.
The petitioners seek a thorough investigation into Ahmed’s financial dealings, including the source of funds used to pay the alleged tuition fees, and any potential conflict of interest in his official capacity.
Besides, the group also demanded the setting up of a special investigative panel comprising the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Code of Conduct Bureau to examine all financial records linked to Ahmed and his family.
They added:“The Nigerian public is also curious about Engr. Ahmed’s source of income that enabled him to afford the alleged huge sums of money as tuition fees for his children,” the petition said.
“Questions abound about his financial dealings, and it is imperative that these issues are thoroughly investigated.
“In light of these allegations, we demand that you take the following actions:
“Initiate a thorough investigation into the allegations against Engr. Farouk Ahmed, specifically focusing on:
The source of funds used to pay the tuition fees for his children.
“Any additional sources of income or employment that may have contributed to his financial capacity. The payment methods and transactions used to settle the tuition fees. Any potential conflict of interest or undue influence in his official capacity.
“Set up a special investigative panel comprising the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Code of Conduct Bureau to examine all financial records linked to Engr. Ahmed and his family.
“Investigate all permits granted under his leadership, particularly for fuel imports, and review them for irregularities. Take appropriate actions based on the findings of the investigation.”
