ABUJA: The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has invited Aliko Dangote to appear before a panel of investigators on Monday in Abuja over a petition he submitted against Ahmed Farouk, former Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
Dangote had petitioned the commission, alleging corruption against Farouk.
A source close to the commission, who confirmed the development on Sunday, said the ICPC had constituted a panel of investigators to handle the probe.
According to the source, the Chairman of the commission, Dr Musa Aliyu (SAN), directed the team to focus on Dangote’s petition.
Dangote is expected to appear in person or be represented by his lawyer, Ogwu Onoja (SAN), with documentary evidence when the investigation formally commences.
Dangote accused Farouk of corruption and misappropriation of funds, including allegedly spending millions of dollars on the education of his four children in expensive schools in Switzerland.
He also alleged that Farouk undermined domestic refining by colluding with international traders and oil importers through the continued issuance of import licences.
The ICPC requested Dangote to submit his evidence, assuring that the investigation would be fair to all parties involved.
Although Farouk has resigned his appointment, the commission said the resignation would not affect the probe.
The petition alleged that Farouk spent over seven million dollars on his children’s education abroad without evidence of lawful income.
Dangote is demanding the arrest, investigation and prosecution of Farouk for allegedly living above his means as a public servant.
The commission’s spokesperson, John Okor Odey, confirmed that the ICPC received the petition on Dec. 16 through Dangote’s lawyer.
