Business magnate Aliko Dangote has withdrawn a petition he filed with the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) against Engineer Farouk Ahmed, the immediate past ACE/CEO of the Nigerian Midstream Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and has instead approached the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for investigation.

A source told JOComms that Dangote decided to withdraw the petition due to concerns over a potential conflict of interest, citing that Ahmed’s spouse holds a key position within the ICPC. “Although no one is certain how it might play out, there were concerns that the relationship could impact the investigation,” the source said. While neither Dangote nor his legal team could comment directly, experts note that a petitioner is entitled to withdraw a case from one agency and pursue it in another, provided it is not filed simultaneously with multiple agencies.

Responding to the situation, ICPC spokesperson John Odey reassured the public that the ongoing investigation will continue unaffected. He confirmed that the commission is in receipt of a withdrawal letter dated 5 January 2025, submitted by Dangote’s counsel, Dr O.J. Onoja SAN, and clarified that all inquiries, including verification of school fees claims involving Farouk Ahmed’s children, are ongoing. “Investigation continues in line with our statutory mandate and in the interest of transparency, accountability, and the fight against corruption,” Odey stated.

Meanwhile, Dangote has formally petitioned the EFCC, requesting a probe into alleged gross abuse of office, violation of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, and financial improprieties by Farouk Ahmed. The EFCC has acknowledged receipt of the petition dated 17 December 2025, but spokesperson Dele Oyewale has yet to provide further comments.

This development comes as both agencies continue to handle the matter independently, while stakeholders await the outcome of EFCC’s inquiry.