Dangote vs. Amosun: Africa’s Richest Man Alleges Ogun Governor Twice Razed His Cement Plant”

Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man and chairman of Dangote Group, has revealed that a cement plant he was building in Ogun State was demolished twice during the administration of former Governor Ibikunle Amosun. Dangote made this disclosure while speaking at an event, stating that the demolitions caused significant setbacks to his business operations in the state.

According to Dangote, the plant was intended to boost local cement production and create jobs, but it faced unexpected resistance from the state government at the time. He explained that despite obtaining the necessary approvals, the project was brought down on two separate occasions. He expressed disappointment over the development, noting that such actions discourage investment and economic growth.

The businessman recounted that his company had invested heavily in the plant before the demolitions occurred. He stated that the loss was substantial, not just in terms of financial investment but also in terms of lost opportunities for employment and industrial expansion. He emphasized that such incidents create an unfavorable environment for business and deter investors from considering the region for future projects.

Dangote did not specify the exact reasons given by the Ogun State government for the demolitions, but he suggested that they were politically motivated. He noted that businesses should not be subjected to such challenges, especially when they are working within the legal framework. He urged governments at all levels to support industrialization rather than obstruct it.

The revelation has sparked reactions from various stakeholders, with some expressing concern over the treatment of investors in Nigeria. Many believe that incidents like this contribute to the difficulties of doing business in the country and could discourage both local and foreign investment. Economic analysts argue that government policies and actions should be structured to support industries rather than hinder their growth.

Former Governor Amosun has not publicly responded to Dangote’s claims. However, during his tenure, Amosun was known for major infrastructural projects and urban renewal efforts, which sometimes led to demolitions of structures deemed illegal or obstructive to development plans. It remains unclear whether the demolition of Dangote’s plant was part of a broader urban planning initiative or if other factors influenced the decision.

Dangote has long been a major player in Nigeria’s industrial sector, with significant investments in cement production, oil refining, and other industries. His company, Dangote Cement, is one of the largest cement producers in Africa, with plants in several Nigerian states and beyond. The Ogun State project was expected to further strengthen the company’s position in the market and contribute to Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in cement production.

Observers say the businessman’s comments highlight the challenges faced by investors in Nigeria, where bureaucratic hurdles, policy inconsistencies, and political interference often pose threats to business operations. Some industry experts have called for clearer regulations and better coordination between government and businesses to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Despite the setbacks in Ogun State, Dangote continues to expand his industrial empire across Nigeria and other parts of Africa. His recent focus has been on the Dangote Refinery, a multi-billion-dollar oil refinery in Lagos, which is expected to transform the country’s energy sector.

The Ogun State government has yet to issue an official statement regarding Dangote’s allegations. Meanwhile, the business community and the general public await further clarification on the matter.