EVENTS

Protesters camp out at ICPC headquarters, demand probe of NMDPRA boss

Published

9 months ago

June 24, 2025

Protesters demanding the investigation of the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed, camped out at the headquarters of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), on Tuesday.

It was the second day of the protest embarked on by a civil society organization, CSO, Concerned Young Professionals Network.

The protesters are calling for a thorough investigation into alleged corruption, abuse of power, and regulatory compromise by the NMDPRA boss.

The group submitted a petition to the ICPC in which they demanded an investigation into the allegations, and Ahmed’s immediate resignation.

In the petition signed by its national president, Comrade Innocent Ofonyi, the group questions how Ahmed, a public official, could afford to pay huge sums for his children’s tuition fees abroad. The petition also raised concerns over potential conflict of interest on the part of the NMDPRA boss.

According to the petition, Ahmed’s son is employed by Oando PLC, a company under NMDPRA’s regulatory jurisdiction. The group said the development suggests nepotism and undue influence.

The protesters further raised concerns over suspected regulatory compromise by the NMDPRA under Ahmed’s leadership, particularly over the issuance of permits for the importation of diesel with high sulphur content, which is harmful to the environment and public health.

The petition called for 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.

It demanded the constitution of a special investigative panel comprising the ICPC, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to probe the allegations.

Parts of the petition read, “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.

“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 alleged $5 million 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.

“We believe that these actions are necessary to restore public trust in the NMDPRA and ensure accountability in the management of public resources.”

Protesters, from the Situation Room for Oil Sector Reforms, had on Monday occupied the offices of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), ICPC and Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) in Abuja, demanding immediate investigation of the allegations against the NMDPRA boss.

EVENTS

EID-EL-FITR: IGP DISU FELICITATES MUSLIM FAITHFUL, ORDERS NATIONWIDE DEPLOYMENT OF TACTICAL ASSETS

Published

4 days ago

March 20, 2026

Ekwutos Blog

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, has extended warm felicitations to the Muslim faithful across Nigeria on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.

In furtherance of his commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment during the festive period, the Inspector-General has directed Commissioners of Police and Tactical Commanders across all states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory to implement robust security arrangements.
Operational measures include:
Strategic deployment of tactical teams and intelligence operatives.

Deployment of the Special Intervention Squad and conventional police personnel to Eid prayer grounds and critical infrastructure.
Increased presence at highways, motor parks, recreational centers, and other public spaces to ensure peaceful, hitch-free celebrations.

The IGP has also ordered heightened visibility policing, coordinated patrols, enhanced surveillance operations, and intelligence-led stop-and-search duties. These actions are aimed at proactively deterring criminal activities and ensuring a swift response to any emerging threats.

IGP Disu calls on members of the public to remain vigilant, cooperate with law enforcement agencies, and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the following emergency lines:
08057000001, 08057000002, 09133333785, and 09133333786.
IGP Tunji Disu wishes all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid-el-Fitr.

DCP ANTHONY OKON PLACID psc(+) mni
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
20th March, 2026

EVENTS

Hon Success Opara celebrates Mothering Sunday with St. Peter women, hails them as the ‘neck that controls the household

Published

1 week ago

March 15, 2026

Ekwutos Blog

Hon Success Opara, former councilorship candidate for Ikenegbu Ward 2, celebrated Mothering Sunday with the women of St. Peter Anglican Church, Ikenegbu, extolling them as the backbone of their households.

He described them as the “neck that controls the household,” acknowledging their vital role in shaping families and communities.

Opara’s gesture is seen as a testament to his commitment to uplifting and empowering women.

The celebration, which coincided with the Christian observance of Mothering Sunday, featured fellowship and words of encouragement from Opara, who prayed for the women’s well-being.

This event highlights the importance of recognizing and appreciating mothers and mother figures in Nigerian society.

EVENTS

“Early marriage is better than fornication” – Mixed reactions as young Nigerian couple trends after welcoming a child

Published

3 weeks ago

March 5, 2026

Ekwutos Blog

A young Nigerian couple are currently trending on Arewa social media circles after they welcomed their first child.

The pictures taken by a Kaduna-based photographer have sparked mixed reactions, with some people saying that the girl is underaged and not old enough to be a wife and mother.