Arewa Group Accuses Dangote of Economic Domination, Challenges Petroleum Product Quality
ABUJA/Nigeria: In a scathing press statement, the Arewa Intelligentia Caucus, represented by President Abubakar Ciroma and Publicity Secretary Nasir Adamu, criticized Aliko Dangote, accusing him of monopolizing various sectors of Nigeria’s economy and challenging him to address allegations of producing substandard petroleum products.
The group highlighted public narratives that portray Dangote as a victim in his ongoing conflict with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), claiming that Dangote has mobilized support to garner sympathy. They asserted that despite Dangote’s attempts to manipulate public perception, Nigerians remain skeptical of his actions.
“Dangote’s manipulative tactics are well-known. He has consistently tried to dominate every sector of the economy, from cement to sugar. But Nigerians will not be fooled again,” the group stated.
The controversy surrounding the Dangote Refinery has become a national issue, overshadowing other matters. The group accused Dangote of using propaganda to distract from the poor quality of his petroleum products and criticized his monopoly in various industries.
“When former President Muhammadu Buhari commissioned the Dangote Refinery, there was hope that it would alleviate fuel shortages. However, this turned out to be a ruse. The same tactics used to eliminate competition in other sectors are now being applied here, but the NNPCL must remain vigilant,” they said.
The group further alleged that the nation’s investment in the refinery was shrouded in deceit, involving both Dangote and former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Godwin Emefiele. They claimed that substantial CBN resources were diverted for the refinery’s construction without proper oversight.
“Engr. Mele Kyari, from the beginning, was cautious and committed only a fraction of NNPCL resources to the project. This decision was based on a thorough understanding of the issues involved,” the group added.
The Arewa Intelligentia Caucus emphasized their commitment to integrity and truth, criticizing Dangote for using propaganda to mislead the public. They urged Nigerians to rely on the expertise of professionals like Engr. Farouk Ahmed, who has labeled the refinery’s products as substandard based on scientific evaluation.
“Dangote should defend the refinery’s products with verified facts instead of resorting to media manipulation. The NNPCL must uphold its professional integrity and not succumb to pressure to accept inferior products,” they stated.
The group concluded by commending the NNPCL’s resilience in maintaining its regulatory responsibilities despite pressures and attacks. They warned that Dangote’s attempts to manipulate the market would ultimately fail.
“Dangote’s tactics will collapse. The controversy has permeated every aspect of national life, yet the refinery’s management remains silent, failing to defend their products. We commend the NNPCL for standing firm against such shenanigans,” they said.
