Dangote Group has moved swiftly to shut down circulating claims of a fallout between its president, Aliko Dangote, and fellow business leader Tony Elumelu, describing the reports as false and misleading.
In a strongly worded statement, Aliko Dangote’s conglomerate dismissed allegations that the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals project was funded through personal borrowing from associates, calling the narrative a distortion of facts.
The clarification was issued by Anthony Chiejina, who stated that the company does not rely on informal financial support from friends to execute major industrial projects. He challenged those behind the claims to provide verifiable evidence.
The controversy stemmed from a viral post that alleged Dangote had approached prominent figures including Tony Elumelu, Mike Adenuga, Abdulsamad Rabiu, and Femi Otedola for financial support.
The post further claimed that while some funds were raised, Elumelu had allegedly withdrawn after initially indicating interest.
Dangote Group rejected the narrative in its entirety, insisting that the refinery project was not financed through such means and that the claims misrepresent how the development was structured.
It also addressed speculation about a strained relationship between Dangote and Elumelu, firmly stating that no such rift exists. According to the company, both men maintain a longstanding professional and personal relationship.
Dangote Group expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of misinformation, particularly the use of artificial intelligence and digital tools to create and spread false content using the identities of high-profile individuals.
The company warned that such actions not only damage reputations but also pose risks to the public, especially when manipulated content could be used for fraudulent purposes.
In its closing remarks, Dangote Group issued a clear warning to content creators, organizations, and digital platforms that share unverified or fabricated information. It stated that it would not hesitate to pursue legal action against those responsible for disseminating false claims.
The response highlights a broader challenge in today’s digital environment, where viral content can quickly shape public perception, regardless of accuracy.
For major corporate entities and public figures, managing misinformation has become an increasingly critical part of maintaining credibility.
For Dangote Group, the message is direct. The claims are false, the relationship in question remains intact, and any further spread of such narratives will be met with decisive action.
