NMDPRA Dismisses Smear Campaign Against CEO Farouk Ahmed as Baseless and Politically Motivated
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has strongly condemned a series of recent media publications and protest actions calling for the resignation of its Chief Executive, Engr. Farouk Ahmed, labeling them as unfounded and orchestrated attacks lacking credibility.
In an official statement, the Authority noted that the allegations being circulated by unidentified groups are devoid of any factual evidence and appear to be part of a smear campaign aimed at derailing the progress of critical reforms in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
“These calls for resignation are filled with baseless declarations and no specific accusations. This alone shows their frivolity,” the Authority stated.
NMDPRA emphasized that its operations are conducted under stringent oversight mechanisms, including internal controls, audits by international firms, scrutiny from the Office of the Auditor-General, and budgetary reviews by the National Assembly.
“It is inconceivable that any misconduct could occur undetected under such an accountability framework. The absence of factual details exposes the orchestrated nature of these claims,” the statement continued.
The Authority raised concerns over the sudden emergence of an anonymous group equipped with costly placards and coordinated media access, suggesting the campaign is being driven by vested interests opposed to the reforms being implemented in the midstream and downstream sectors.
“True advocates for transparency would have used legal and institutional mechanisms to raise concerns. Instead, what we see is a staged media spectacle,” NMDPRA said.
The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and public engagement, inviting credible stakeholders to engage through proper channels such as the Freedom of Information Act.
Since assuming office, Engr. Farouk Ahmed has led NMDPRA’s implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (2021), pushing for greater equity, transparency, and operational efficiency in Nigeria’s energy space.
“The real motivation behind this campaign is the discomfort of individuals and groups whose interests are threatened by our reforms,” the statement concluded. “The public should disregard these distractions and continue supporting the transformation of the sector under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.”
NMDPRA reassured Nigerians that it remains fully focused on its mandate to ensure energy security, regulatory excellence, and a transparent petroleum industry for the benefit of all citizens.
