Dangote Denies Link to Fatal Ondo Road Crash

AKURE, Nigeria (AP) — The Dangote Group has denied reports that one of its trucks was involved in a fatal crash in Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, where eight people were reported dead.

The Federal Road Safety Corps confirmed the crash, which involved a truck and a commercial bus in Akoko South-West Local Government Area.

However, in a statement on Thursday, Dangote Group said the truck identified by Plate No. JJJ 365 XB does not belong to the company or any of its subsidiaries.

“Dangote Group 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 said registration records confirmed that the vehicle was owned and operated by an independent logistics firm with no affiliation to the group. It added that the truck was transporting crushed stones in reused sacks bearing various brand names, not Dangote products.

“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 explained that all its vehicles are properly branded, tracked, and operated under strict safety and compliance standards.

“All genuine Dangote trucks carry distinct company markings and fleet numbers, making them easily identifiable,” it said.

While expressing sympathy to the victims of the crash, the company urged the public and media outlets to verify information before linking accidents to Dangote Group.

It also cautioned against using images of Dangote-branded trucks in reports of unrelated incidents and reaffirmed its commitment to road safety and responsible corporate practices across its operations.