The Dangote Group has denied claims circulating on social media that one of its trucks was involved in a tragic road accident in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The company clarified that the vehicle in question does not belong to Dangote Group or any of its subsidiaries.
Dangote clarifies ownership of the truck
In a statement released on Thursday, the conglomerate said its internal investigation and verified vehicle registration records confirmed that the truck allegedly linked to the company was owned and operated by an independent logistics firm.
“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.
According to the company, the vehicle with plate number JJJ 365 XB is owned and operated by a private logistics company with no affiliation to Dangote Industries. “Verified vehicle registration details confirm that the truck in question is owned and operated by an independent logistics company with no link to Dangote Group,” it stated.
Truck was not transporting Dangote products
The company further clarified that the truck was not carrying any Dangote products at the time of the accident. Instead, the vehicle was transporting crushed stones packed in reused sacks that bore different brand names.
“Contrary to online reports, the truck was not conveying any Dangote products. It was carrying crushed stones packaged in old sacks with various brand markings,” the company explained.
This clarification comes after several social media posts and online publications falsely claimed that the truck involved in the accident belonged to Dangote Industries Limited, one of Africa’s largest conglomerates with interests in cement, sugar, salt, and other commodities.
Strict branding and safety policies
Dangote Group emphasized that all its genuine trucks are distinctly branded and closely monitored to ensure safety and compliance with road transport regulations. The company outlined its fleet management policy, noting that it maintains high operational and safety standards across all its transportation activities.
“Dangote Industries maintains a strict policy on fleet management and vehicle identification, ensuring that all its trucks are properly branded, tracked, and operated by trained personnel under rigorous safety and compliance standards,” the statement added.
The company further stated that all its trucks carry unique company markings and fleet numbers, making them easily identifiable to the public. This, it explained, was part of its effort to distinguish Dangote-owned vehicles from those of third-party contractors or other operators using reused branded materials.
Appeal for responsible reporting
While expressing sympathy to the victims of the fatal accident, the Dangote Group urged the media and the public to verify information before linking any vehicle or incident to the company.
“The company deeply sympathises with all those affected by the incident,” the statement read. “We urge members of the public and the media to verify information before attributing ownership or involvement to Dangote Group.”
The company also cautioned journalists and online platforms against using images of Dangote-branded trucks to illustrate unrelated accidents, describing such acts as misleading and damaging to its reputation.
Commitment to safety and corporate responsibility
Reiterating its commitment to road safety, regulatory compliance, and responsible corporate conduct, Dangote Group assured Nigerians that it continues to uphold best practices in transportation and logistics management.
“As a responsible corporate organization, we remain committed to the highest standards of road safety, driver training, and vehicle maintenance,” the company reaffirmed.
Dangote Industries also emphasized that it works closely with relevant authorities to ensure its fleet adheres to national road safety regulations and that drivers undergo regular training on traffic discipline and accident prevention.
The group concluded its statement by expressing its continued support for initiatives that promote safer roads across Nigeria and its dedication to corporate responsibility in all its operations.
By addressing misinformation and reaffirming its commitment to safety, the Dangote Group hopes to correct public misconceptions and ensure that only verified information about its activities is shared with the public.
