BUA Group boss, Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu is now battling with Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President, Dangote Group and the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.
Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu and Alhaji Aliko Dangote
He wrote an open letter to President Muhammadu Buhari about them recently… “We are writing to your Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as our last recourse in view of recent clandestine actions, activities and conduct of a senior minister, the Honourable Minister of Mines and Steel Development (herein referred to as the Minister) in collaboration with Dangote Group and their cohorts capable of undermining peace and security in Edo State and operations in and around our BUA Cement Okpella Plant.”
“The actions of Dangote Group with the collusion and connivance of highly placed officials of Government especially the Minister is directed towards destroying the business of BUA cement with the ultimate goal of creating a monopoly in the cement industry in Nigeria and control the entire cement industry and market in the country.”
“This with due respect should not be allowed in a democracy and a free market. Allowing such eventual monopoly is not only inimical to the growth of the cement industry and its attendant effect on the cost of construction and housing delivery to the mass of Nigerians, but also the economic wellbeing of the nation as a whole. It is worrisome that Dangote Group with all its visibility and international reputation is displaying such utter lack of respect for and trust in the Nigerian Judiciary.”
“Having pursued the proper legal channels and taken lawful steps to resolve the issues, we were therefore constrained to make this passionate appeal to your office, Sir to restrain and checkmate the illegal and aggressive activities of the Minister, Dangote Group and their cohorts over the continued brazen attempt to use extrajudicial means to subjugate the course of justice.”
“Their actions pose a clear and present danger to a free market environment governed by the rule of Law and responsible business practice in Nigeria because if a business with our cloth, size and enormous contributions to the economy can be targeted in such a calculated attempt at mischief under an official cover provided by a serving minister, then what hope is there for smaller businesses or foreign investors who may wish to come into our country.”
“Fortunately, Nigerians know your stand against corruption and impunity but it is also very clear that if nothing is done, despite us pursuing all legal means available, Dangote Group will have sent a negative message about Nigeria to the world that he and his cronies are above the rule of law in Nigeria and no one or business entity is safe from their blatant acts of impunity. What then will that say about the existing business environment in Nigeria and perception of your government’s anti-corruption stance?”
“In view of the above, Sir, we are therefore constrained to make this passionate plea to you as the most incorruptible Nigerian leader and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to intervene in ensuring that these actions of the minister and Dangote Group – which have become inimical to the growth and confidence in the economy, be curbed whilst we await the outcome of the judicial decision on this matter. No one, no matter how well placed or how connected they are, should be allowed to be above the law or take it into their hands.”