Faruk vs. Dangote, Who Failed Nigerians: The system or the conscience, by Usman Yusuf Dole
It has been over a month since I last shared an opinion piece, following my column “Trump’s Strategic Move: Reading Between the Lines of Global Politics.” Recent events, however, compel a return to public commentary. The unfolding confrontation between two influential figures within Nigeria’s political–economic space has once again exposed deep-rooted contradictions in our governance structure.
The public exchange between Alhaji Aliko Dangote, representing the private sector, and Engr. Faruk Maishanu Ahmed of a key government institution has generated intense national debate. At first glance, the clash appears to revolve around regulatory authority and national interest. Yet, the Dangote revelations surrounding the controversy of Faruk children school fees have reopened a familiar but unresolved issue: Nigeria’s enduring crisis of institutional weakness, compounded by an apparent erosion of moral consciousness.
The real concern is not about who is right or wrong between Dangote and Faruk. Rather, it is about why Nigeria repeatedly witnesses situations that resemble a breach of public trust—while society often looks away, applauds, or rationalizes such conduct, and institutions remain silent or indifferent about it? . This recurring pattern points to a systemic challenge that goes far beyond individual personalities.
READ ALSO: Farouk Ahmed resigns as MD of NMDPRA amid corruption allegations by Dangote
Looking outward, countries like China offer a lesson for developing nations. Despite its enormous population, China has invested heavily in building strong institutions that emphasize accountability. Corruption is investigated and punished with seriousness. While its approach may appear extreme to some, the underlying principle remains instructive: when institutions are supported by strong ethical expectations, public interest is better protected.
From the inception of the Dangote Refinery, the project has faced persistent regulatory disputes led by Mr Faruk as widely discussed by commentators such as the late Alhassan Mailafia. These ranged from delays in licensing, repeated inspections, and public criticisms, to disagreements over production levels, crude oil pricing, and continued importation of refined fuel that seemingly undercuts local refining efforts.
Many observers believe Dangote’s protest and public engagement were primarily driven by the need to safeguard his vast investment, estimated at over 20 billion dollars. That argument is understandable. Yet, a more fundamental question remains unanswered: what is truly wrong with supporting indigenous refineries owned and managed by Nigerians, especially when such investments promise economic sovereignty, employment opportunities, and reduced dependence on foreign facilities?
Nigeria is richly endowed with crude oil, yet it continues to rely heavily on foreign refineries. One is compelled to ask: who benefits most from this dependence? Why should an indigenous investor like Aliko Dangote—whose philanthropic interventions have touched millions, and who has publicly committed a significant portion of his wealth to charity—encounter what appears to be persistent institutional resistance rather than encouragement?
READ ALSO: Reps invite Dangote refinery, NMDPRA over downstream sector dispute
Viewed objectively, this unfolding saga sends a discouraging message to aspiring local investors and entrepreneurs. It suggests that state power can sometimes be perceived as an obstacle to indigenous innovation, even when such initiatives align with national development goals. Over time, this perception alone is enough to weaken confidence and discourage long-term domestic investment.
Ethically and morally, the conversation becomes even more delicate. Allegations concerning substantial expenditures on foreign education for Faruk 4 children, reportedly running into billions of naira, have stirred public discomfort, not necessarily out of resentment, but because they contrast sharply with the daily realities of millions of Nigerians struggling with
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