Dangote vs. Amosun: The Cement Factory Controversy in Ogun
By NIGPOST News Desk
A brewing controversy has erupted between Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, and former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, over the alleged demolition of a Dangote Cement plant in Itori, Ewekoro Local Government Area.
Speaking during a visit to his new cement plant in Itori, Dangote revealed that the factory was demolished twice under Amosun’s administration, forcing him to abandon the project.
However, he credited the current governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for encouraging him to resume construction.
Dangote’s Allegations: “Our Factory Was Demolished Twice”
According to Dangote, his company faced major setbacks under Amosun’s tenure.
“That factory was demolished twice. We started, and Governor Amosun demolished it. The second time, we started again, and he demolished not only the factory but even the fencing. So we left. But now, we are back because of Governor Dapo Abiodun.”
The billionaire industrialist emphasized that the Itori plant, set to begin operations next year, will further boost Ogun State’s industrial strength.
The facility will feature two 6,000t/day clinker production lines, including limestone crushing, cement packaging, and shipping.
Amosun’s Defense: “Dangote Lacked Proper Approvals”
In response, Senator Amosun, through his media aide Lanre Akinwale, dismissed the allegations, insisting that Dangote never secured the required approvals for the structures that were demolished.
“We appeal to Alhaji Dangote to provide evidence of the requisite approvals for the structures he claimed were demolished. There cannot be two governments in a state, and Dangote cannot operate above the law.”
Amosun further pointed out that during the commissioning of the Ibese Cement Factory, Dangote had praised his administration for promoting investments in Ogun.
Dangote’s Expansion Plans in Nigeria
Despite the controversy, Dangote reaffirmed his company’s commitment to industrial growth in Nigeria. He highlighted that Dangote Cement, Africa’s largest cement producer, has a total production capacity of 52.0 million metric tons annually, with major plants in:
- Obajana, Kogi State – 16.25Mta
- Ibese, Ogun State – 12Mta
- Gboko, Benue State – 4Mta
- Okpella, Edo State – 3Mta
He also emphasized Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in cement and fertilizer production, along with the nation’s growing capacity to refine petroleum products at the 650,000-barrel-per-day Dangote Refinery in Ibeju-Lekki.
Final Thoughts: A Business vs. Government Clash?
As the back-and-forth between Dangote and Amosun continues, one thing is clear: the industrial sector in Ogun State remains a major battleground for economic growth and political interests.
Whether Dangote’s allegations hold weight or Amosun’s claims of due process stand firm, this dispute is far from over.
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