A recent road accident in Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, has sparked controversy over the ownership of the truck involved. The Dangote Group has issued a statement denying any connection to the vehicle, which was reportedly involved in a fatal crash that claimed several lives.
The accident, which occurred on Wednesday, involved a truck loaded with stone dust and a motorcycle. According to the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps in Ondo State, the truck lost control and rammed into a barricade in front of the university, resulting in the loss of lives. The Public Relations Officer of the Students’ Union Government of Adekunle Ajasin University confirmed that the accident was caused by an articulated vehicle that suffered a brake failure.
The Dangote Group has since clarified that the truck in question, with plate number JJJ 365 XB, is owned and operated by an independent logistics company with no affiliation to the group. The company stated that the truck was not conveying any Dangote products but was transporting crushed stones in reused sacks bearing various brand names.
Dangote Industries emphasized its 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 company sympathized with those affected by the incident and urged the public and media to verify information before attributing ownership or involvement to Dangote Group.
The company also advised media organizations to refrain from using images of Dangote-branded trucks in connection with accidents or incidents unrelated to its operations. Dangote Industries remains committed to road safety, regulatory compliance, and responsible corporate citizenship across all its operations in Nigeria and beyond.
The denial by Dangote Group highlights the importance of verifying information to avoid misinformation and unnecessary speculation. As the investigation into the accident continues, it is essential to establish the facts and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and adherence to safety standards on Nigerian roads to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.