OPINION: Allegations of School Children Funding: Thumbs-Up for Engr. Farouk Ahmed, Former CEO, NMDPRA By Bishop Dr. Sanya Ojo
Recent allegations surrounding the educational funding of the children of Engr. Ahmed Farouk, former Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), have stirred intense public debate and media scrutiny.
The controversy followed claims by the Chairman of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, who alleged that Farouk spent about $5 million on the secondary school education of his children in Switzerland—an action he described as economic sabotage and corruption.
In a paid newspaper advert released on Tuesday, Dangote clarified that the amount covered the education of four children—Faisal Farouk, Farouk Jr., Ashraf Farouk, and Farhana Farouk—over a six-year period at renowned Swiss institutions, including Montreux School, Aiglon College, Institut Le Rosey, and La Garenne International School.
Farouk’s Response
In a swift reaction, Ahmed Farouk dismissed the allegations as “wild and spurious.” In a disclaimer personally signed by him, Farouk stated that a purported response attributed to him did not emanate from him.
He emphasized his preference to address the matter before a formal investigative body, rather than engage in a public exchange.
“While I am aware of the wild and spurious allegations made against me and my family and the frenzy it has generated, as a regulator of a sensitive industry, I have opted not to engage in public brickbat.”
Resignation and the Bigger Question
Subsequently, Farouk resigned his position at NMDPRA amid the allegations. Whether this move was a principled step to protect the integrity of the office or a consequence of mounting pressure remains a matter for objective investigation.
A broader question also lingers: What was the ultimate aim of the whistleblowing? Was it a patriotic act in the national interest—or part of a deeper struggle over control and influence within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector? Time, due process, and transparent inquiry will tell.
Our Position
VENO tv gives a thumbs-up to Engr. Ahmed Farouk for stepping aside and openly welcoming a probe into the funding of his children’s education. Such openness, if followed through with transparency, may ultimately strengthen his reputation and reassure the public.
As Nigerians, we must encourage accountability, due process, and fairness—without descending into a roforofo fight that could spiral into protracted legal battles. The truth will prevail, and Nigeria must be better in our lifetime.
Stay tuned.
By Bishop Dr. Sanya Ojo
Journalist & Leader in the Vineyard
@VENO 2025
📞 +234 803 334 0285
