The Dangote Group has dismissed reports alleging that one of its trucks was involved in a deadly accident that occurred in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Earlier, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed that eight people lost their lives in the Akungba-Akoko crash, which involved a truck and a commercial bus.
According to the FRSC’s Public Education Officer in Ondo State, Abiola Fadumo, the accident happened when the truck collided with a commercial bus, leading to multiple fatalities.
In a statement released on Thursday via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the company clarified that the truck identified with Plate No. JJJ 365 XB was not owned by Dangote Group or any of its subsidiaries.
“Dangote Group has refuted reports circulating on social media and some online platforms linking it to a truck involved in a road accident in Akungba-Akoko. The company wishes to make it categorically clear that the truck involved in the unfortunate incident does not belong to Dangote Group or any of its subsidiaries,” the statement read.
The company further explained that vehicle registration records confirmed the truck was owned and operated by an independent logistics firm that has no connection with the Dangote Group.
It also stated that the truck was carrying crushed stones packed in reused sacks displaying different brand names, and not any Dangote product.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the truck was not conveying any Dangote products but was transporting crushed stones in reused sacks bearing various brand names,” the company said.
Dangote Industries noted that its fleet management system ensures that all its vehicles are properly branded, monitored, and operated only by trained personnel under strict safety and regulatory compliance procedures.
The statement continued: “For clarity, all genuine Dangote trucks carry distinct company markings and fleet numbers, making them easily identifiable.”
While expressing condolences to the victims of the Akungba-Akoko crash, the company advised members of the public and the media to confirm information before linking any incident or vehicle to it.
“While the company deeply sympathises with all those affected by the incident, it urges members of the public and the media to verify information before attributing ownership or involvement to Dangote Group,” it added.
The Group also warned against the use of pictures of Dangote-branded trucks in news reports unrelated to its vehicles.
It reaffirmed its dedication to promoting road safety, adhering to regulations, and maintaining high standards of corporate responsibility both in Nigeria and internationally.
“Dangote Industries remains steadfast in its commitment to road safety, regulatory compliance, and responsible corporate citizenship across all its operations in Nigeria and beyond,” the statement concluded.
