Dangote Group Denies Connection To Ondo Truck Crash That Killed Eight
Dangote Group has denied ownership of the truck involved in a fatal accident in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State, which reportedly claimed the lives of eight people, including a pregnant woman.
OSUN DEFENDER had earlier reported that the crash occurred on Wednesday evening when a truck carrying cement allegedly lost control and rammed into roadside shops along the Owo–Akungba–Ikare expressway near Holy Trinity Church, causing panic among residents and students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA).
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander in Ondo, Samuel Ibitoye, confirmed that the truck lost control after hitting a barricade in front of the university, killing five males, two females, and a male child.
Following widespread claims that the truck belonged to Dangote Group, the company issued a statement on Thursday refuting the allegation.
“Dangote Group has refuted reports circulating on social media and in some online platforms linking it to a truck involved in a road accident in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State,” the statement read.
The company made it clear that the vehicle had no connection to its fleet or operations.
“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.
“Verified vehicle registration details confirm that the truck with Plate No. JJJ 365 XB, is owned and operated by an independent logistics company with no affiliation to Dangote Group. 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.
“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. For clarity, all genuine Dangote trucks carry distinct company markings and fleet numbers, making them easily identifiable,” the statement said.
Expressing sympathy for those affected by the tragedy, the Group urged members of the public and the media to confirm facts before linking any vehicle to the company.
“While the company deeply sympathises with all those affected by the incident, it urges members of the public and the media to verify information before attributing ownership or involvement to Dangote Group. The company also advises media organisations to refrain from using images of Dangote-branded trucks in connection with accidents or incidents unrelated to its operations.
“Dangote Industries remains steadfast in its commitment to road safety, regulatory compliance, and responsible corporate citizenship across all its operations in Nigeria and beyond,” the statement said.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
