Dangote Group has dismissed reports of a rift between Aliko Dangote and Tony Elumelu, calling them false, malicious, and misleading
The Dangote Group has denied reports suggesting a rift between its President, Aliko Dangote, and the Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu, describing the claims as false, malicious, and baseless.
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In a statement issued on Sunday, the company said a widely circulated publication alleging tension between both business leaders did not originate from Aliko Dangote or the organisation.
The statement, signed by the Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, stressed that no such comments or sentiments were ever expressed by Aliko Dangote or the Dangote Group.
“The Dangote Group has become aware of a publication titled ‘Aliko Dangote Speaks Out on Why He Distanced Himself from Tony Elumelu’, which is false, malicious, and baseless,” the statement said.
The company also rejected claims suggesting that the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals project was funded through personal borrowing from associates, describing the allegation as inaccurate.
Anthony Chiejina clarified that Aliko Dangote does not finance major projects through informal personal loans and urged those making such claims to provide credible evidence.
“As a matter of principle, Aliko Dangote neither finances his projects through personal borrowing from friends nor engages in lending arrangements of that nature,” the statement added.
The group further dismissed suggestions of strained relations between Aliko Dangote and Tony Elumelu, insisting that both men maintain a longstanding and cordial relationship.
It explained that the viral post circulating online, which alleged a breakdown in relations and detailed supposed financial support discussions, was entirely fabricated.
According to the company, the post falsely claimed that Elumelu and other business figures were involved in funding arrangements for the refinery project, a narrative it described as misleading.
Beyond the disputed report, the Dangote Group raised concerns over the growing use of fabricated statements and digitally manipulated content involving Aliko Dangote’s identity.
It warned that the use of artificial intelligence-generated content, images, and false advertisements using his name and likeness could amount to reputational damage and fraud.
The company cautioned individuals and platforms involved in spreading misinformation to desist immediately, stating that it would not hesitate to pursue legal action where necessary.
Also read: UN: 85% of crimes against journalists go unpunished£
The Dangote Group reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, integrity, and continued contribution to industrial development across Africa.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
