The Senate of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has renewed its demand for the suspension of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed, insisting it will not relent until allegations of corruption against him are thoroughly investigated.
In a statement signed by NANS Senate President Usman Nagwaza on Tuesday, the student body said its call follows repeated attempts by critics to distract and undermine its push for transparency, accountability, and good governance.
“Following our initial call for the suspension of Farouk Ahmed pending investigation into the allegations against him, we have been inundated with press releases from detractors seeking to frustrate and sabotage our efforts,” the statement read.
NANS stressed its resolve, warning against intimidation and vowing to pursue the matter to its conclusion.
“We want to state clearly that NANS remains steadfast in its demand for the suspension of Farouk Ahmed and will not be swayed by attempts to distract from the issue. We are committed to ensuring justice is served,” Nagwaza said.
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The association described the allegations against the NMDPRA boss as serious, questioning his suitability to remain in office while investigations are ongoing.
“The allegations raised against Farouk Ahmed call into question his integrity and fitness to hold public office. It is imperative that he steps aside to allow a thorough investigation free from influence or interference,” the statement added.
NANS also urged President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action.
“We reiterate our call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to suspend Farouk Ahmed as MD of NMDPRA pending the investigation. This is necessary to ensure the inquiry is conducted fairly and without interference,” it said.
The association stressed that Nigerians deserve full disclosure and accountability.
“The Nigerian people deserve to know the truth about the allegations against Farouk Ahmed. We will not tolerate corruption or impunity, and those responsible must be held accountable,” NANS said.
The group also called on citizens to support its stance and warned detractors against attempts to derail its campaign.
“Attempts to distract from this issue will not succeed. We urge all Nigerians to stand with us and demand accountability from our leaders,” the statement read.
NANS noted it was closely monitoring developments as the 72-hour ultimatum issued to authorities counts down.
“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will take further action, including mobilising our structures nationwide, if the ultimatum expires without resolution,” it said.
The association concluded by reaffirming its determination to see the matter through.
“We are committed to pursuing this issue to its logical conclusion and will not back down until justice is served,” NANS stated.
