The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has invited Aliko Dangote to appear before a panel of its investigators on Monday in Abuja over a petition he submitted to the agency.
Dangote had petitioned the ICPC against Ahmed Farouk, former Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), alleging corruption.
A source close to the commission, who confirmed the development on Sunday in Abuja, said the ICPC had constituted a special panel of investigators to handle the matter.
According to the source, the ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu (SAN), directed the panel to give priority attention to Dangote’s petition.
The businessman is expected to appear in person or be represented by his lawyer, Ogwu Onoja (SAN), with relevant evidence when the investigation formally begins.
In the petition, Dangote accused Farouk of corruption and misappropriation of public funds, alleging that he spent millions of dollars on the education of his four children in expensive and exclusive schools in Switzerland.
He further alleged that Farouk undermined domestic refining by colluding with international traders and oil importers through the continued issuance of import licences.
The ICPC has requested that Dangote submit all supporting evidence to the anti-graft agency, assuring that the investigation will be conducted fairly and transparently.
Although Farouk has since resigned his position, the commission said his resignation would not affect the ongoing probe.
The petition alleges that Farouk spent more than seven million dollars on his children’s education in Switzerland without evidence of lawful income.
Dangote is calling for Farouk’s arrest, investigation, and prosecution, alleging that he lived beyond his legitimate means as a public servant.
Confirming the development, the ICPC’s spokesperson, John Okor Odey, said the commission received a formal petition from Dangote through his lawyer on December 16 against the former NMDPRA chief.
NAN
