Follow Us on Google
By John Ogunsemore
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have expressed strong solidarity with Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed, condemning what they described as harassment, intimidation, and reputational attacks against him amid an escalating dispute with Dangote Refinery.
This is contained in a joint statement issued on Monday and signed by NANS National Public Relations Officer (PRO), Comrade Samson Ajasa Adeyemi and National Coordinator,
Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSO), Mr. Humphrey Jonathan.
The statement comes amid heightened tensions in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.
On Sunday, Africa’s richest man and President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, accused the NMDPRA leadership of economic sabotage by issuing import licences that undermine domestic refining.
He also called for an investigation into Engr. Ahmed over alleged personal expenditures inconsistent with public service earnings.
However, the groups frowned at the media narratives targeted at the NMDPRA boss in the wake of Dangote’s remarks.
The statement reads, “We, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), in coalition with concerned civil society organisations across the country, hereby address the press and the Nigerian public on the recent allegations and media narratives targeted at the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed.
“Let it be stated clearly and unequivocally that NMDPRA is a statutory regulatory authority of the Federal Government of Nigeria, established by law to carry out its responsibilities independently, professionally, and in the national interest.
“The authority can not and must not be coerced, intimidated, pressured, or blackmailed to serve the interest of any individual or corporate entity, regardless of status or influence.
“As Nigerian students and youths, we have consistently demonstrated our patriotism and support for indigenous industrial growth.
Other News
“We stood in solidarity with Dangote Refinery when it was necessary to advocate for full operational take-off, policy support, and the “crude-for-naira” arrangement with the federal government.
“We strongly believe in local production, economic growth, and job creation.
“However, we draw a firm red line at character assassination, media trials, and reputational attacks against credible public servants.”
The groups described Engr. Ahmed as a man of proven integrity, professionalism, and service to the nation, noting that the recent actions and allegations directed at him were totally unacceptable to Nigerian students and civil society groups.
The statement further reads, “We caution that dragging regulatory matters into the media space, rather than engaging appropriate government channels, is unhealthy for national stability and capable of creating unnecessary tension that could escalate into avoidable protests and unrest across the country.
“If Dangote Refinery as a private entity has grievances or concerns, the proper approach is to engage relevant government institutions and regulatory bodies through established legal and administrative frameworks, not through media wars or campaigns capable of undermining public confidence in national institutions.”
The groups commended the leadership of NMDPRA for its recent commitment to transparency, particularly the publication of regulatory reports and activities, saying it is a positive development that aligns with global best practices and demonstrates that the agency is moving in the right direction.
The groups called for collaboration, not confrontation, partnership, not blackmailing, synergy, not intimidation, and unity, not division.
“Nigeria’s development requires cooperation between regulators and investors, not dirty games or personal attacks.
“We strongly stand in solidarity with Engr. Farouk Ahmed and urge all stakeholders, including Dangote Refinery, to embrace dialogue, mutual respect, and institutional integrity in the interest of national peace and progress,” group further said.
