Billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote has once again ignited a firestorm, accusing a powerful “oil cabal” of orchestrating relentless efforts to sabotage his monumental $20 billion oil refinery in Lekki. Speaking at a recent investor forum, Dangote minced no words, stating that entrenched interests who flourished under Nigeria’s now-defunct fuel subsidy regime are actively working to undermine the 650,000 barrels-per-day facility.
Dangote asserted that these vested groups are not only targeting his refinery but are also fueling resistance against President Bola Tinubu’s bold move to eliminate petrol subsidies. He declared his unwavering resolve to overcome these obstacles, drawing on a lifetime of battles.
This is not the first time Dangote has publicly raised concerns about shadowy forces attempting to derail the game-changing project. His refinery, poised to end Nigeria’s reliance on costly fuel imports and generate significant economic benefits, is seen by many as a direct threat to those who profited from the old system.
Despite the formidable opposition, Dangote remains optimistic, vowing to emerge victorious in this ongoing fight. His struggle is increasingly viewed as a symbolic battle for Nigeria’s energy independence and a challenge to the grip of elite interests on the nation’s vital resources. (Sun)