Dangote Group denies ‘rift’ with Elumelu, dismisses refinery financing claims

The Dangote Group has refuted reports suggesting a fallout between its President, Aliko Dangote, and Tony Elumelu, describing the claims as false, malicious and without any factual basis.

In a statement issued by its Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, the company said the publication alleging that Dangote distanced himself from Elumelu was entirely fabricated and did not reflect the position of either the businessman or the organisation.

The Group also dismissed claims that the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals was financed through personal borrowing from friends, insisting that such assertions were inaccurate and misleading.

“As a matter of principle, Aliko Dangote neither finances his projects through personal borrowing from friends nor engages in such arrangements,” the statement said, challenging those behind the claims to provide verifiable evidence.

According to the company, both Dangote and Elumelu maintain a longstanding and cordial relationship, contrary to suggestions of any disagreement or estrangement between them.

The Group further raised concerns over what it described as a growing trend of misinformation, including the unauthorised use of Dangote’s name, image and likeness in AI-generated advertisements and other misleading content.

It warned that such actions pose serious reputational risks and may amount to fraud, urging individuals and platforms involved in the creation and spread of false information to desist immediately.

The company added that it would not hesitate to take legal action against those responsible for disseminating defamatory content, as part of efforts to protect its brand and leadership.

Dangote Group reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards of integrity while continuing its drive for industrialisation, economic self-sufficiency and sustainable development across Africa.