The Dangote Group has denied ownership of the truck involved in a tragic road accident that claimed several lives in Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State.
The crash, which occurred on Wednesday evening near the Holy Trinity Church along the Owo–Akungba–Ikare highway, left at least eight people dead — including a pregnant woman — after a truck reportedly lost control and rammed into roadside shops. The incident caused widespread panic as residents and students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), rushed to the scene.
Confirming the accident, the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ondo State, Samuel Ibitoye, stated that the truck lost control after hitting a barricade near the university, resulting in the deaths of five men, two women, and a male child.
Following speculations that the ill-fated truck belonged to Dangote Group, the company issued a formal statement on Thursday refuting the claim.
“Dangote Group 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,” the statement read.
According to the company, independent verification of the vehicle’s registration showed no link to its fleet or operations.
“Checks revealed that the truck with Plate No. JJJ 365 XB is owned by an independent logistics company and was not conveying Dangote products. The vehicle was transporting crushed stones in reused sacks bearing different brand names,” the company clarified.
Dangote Industries further noted that all its vehicles are properly branded and monitored under strict operational standards.
“All genuine Dangote trucks carry distinct company markings and fleet numbers, making them easily identifiable. Our trucks are tracked and operated by trained drivers under strict safety and compliance procedures,” the statement added.
While expressing sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives, the Group appealed to the public and media to verify information before linking any vehicle to its name.
“We sympathise deeply with the victims of this tragic accident. However, we urge the public and media outlets to confirm facts before associating incidents with our company,” the statement concluded.
Dangote Industries reaffirmed its commitment to road safety, responsible fleet management, and public accountability across all its operations in Nigeria and beyond.
