Aliko Dangote, head of Dangote Group, has denied selling fuel to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) for ₦898 per litre. The rumours, which have travelled widely across numerous media channels and social platforms, have sparked public bewilderment and alarm, especially given the importance of fuel costs to Nigeria’s economy. Dangote, in a sharply worded statement, denied the charges as false and malicious, emphasising that the Dangote Group is not involved in such pricing.
Fuel pricing in Nigeria is a highly sensitive issue, with any hint of price manipulation triggering widespread public outrage. The accusation that Dangote Group supplied fuel for ₦898 per litre sparked fury among residents, who are already facing increased living costs and fuel prices after the elimination of fuel subsidies earlier this year. The charge aroused eyebrows and prompted both the Dangote Group and the NNPC to clarify their positions.
In response to the situation, Dangote’s representatives quickly issued a statement refuting the allegations. According to the corporation, there is no reality to the rumour that the Dangote Refinery, which recently began operations, is selling petroleum at such exorbitant prices. The Dangote Group spokesperson expressed dissatisfaction with what they saw as an intentional attempt to destroy the company’s brand and instill public distrust. They underlined that the refinery has yet to fully initiate fuel sales to the NNPC or any other organisation, therefore ruling out the prospect of selling at the rumoured price.
The Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest and one of the world’s largest refineries, is regarded as a possible game changer in Nigeria’s fuel supply chain. Once fully operating, it is intended to significantly reduce the country’s reliance on imported gasoline while stabilising domestic fuel costs. The refinery is regarded as a critical factor in lowering Nigeria’s fuel import cost, which has been a huge drag on the country’s economy for many years.
Despite the refinery’s bright future, erroneous claims concerning alleged fuel prices have overshadowed the benefits it is anticipated to bring. Dangote’s team reaffirmed the company’s commitment to openness and fair business practices, promising Nigerians that the refinery will play an important role in guaranteeing affordable fuel for the country once it is fully operational.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) also replied to the allegations, claiming that there was no transaction between the NNPC and Dangote at the claimed amount. The NNPC also informed the public that it is still committed to stabilising fuel prices in partnership with partners such as the Dangote Group. Both parties have stated that any pricing decisions will be consistent with market realities and in the best interests of Nigerians.
As public worry about fuel prices grows, the Dangote Group has assured residents that it will not engage in any actions that may abuse the Nigerian people. Aliko Dangote, famed for his economic prowess and investments across the continent, is still one of Nigeria’s most respected businesspeople, and the current allegations appear to be part of a larger narrative geared at undercutting his accomplishments.
In the middle of these allegations, both the Dangote Group and the NNPC have reaffirmed their commitment to ethical business practices, guaranteeing Nigerians that they will collaborate to ensure that the refinery meets its promise of affordable fuel.