The Senate of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has doubled down on its demand for the suspension of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed, over alleged corruption, vowing not to back down until justice is served.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the President of the NANS Senate, Usman Nagwaza, the student body said it has come under pressure from various quarters since making the call, but insists those efforts will not derail its resolve. According to NANS, the renewed demand is driven by its commitment to transparency, accountability and good governance.
The association accused unnamed detractors of flooding the media with counter statements aimed at frustrating and discrediting its campaign. However, it stressed that intimidation or distraction would not weaken its position.
“We want to make it clear that NANS remains resolute in its demand for the suspension of Farouk Ahmed. We will not be distracted, intimidated or silenced. We are committed to pursuing this matter to its logical conclusion until justice is served,” Nagwaza said.
NANS described the allegations against the NMDPRA boss as serious, arguing that they raise fundamental questions about his integrity and suitability to continue in office while investigations are ongoing. The group insisted that stepping aside is necessary to ensure a fair and credible probe, free from influence or interference.
The student body also renewed its call on President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action by suspending Ahmed, stressing that such a move would demonstrate the government’s commitment to accountability and the rule of law.
According to NANS, Nigerians deserve full transparency on the matter, noting that the public has a right to know the truth behind the allegations. The association reiterated its zero tolerance for corruption and impunity, warning that anyone found culpable must be held accountable.
NANS further called on Nigerians to support its stance, urging citizens to join in demanding accountability from public office holders. It warned those allegedly trying to undermine the campaign to desist, insisting their efforts would not succeed.
The group disclosed that it is closely monitoring developments as it counts down to the expiration of a 72-hour ultimatum earlier issued to the authorities, signaling that further actions may follow if its demands are ignored.
