BUA Industries Responds to Dangote.
In a recent development, BUA Industries has issued a detailed response to the allegations levelled against the company and its management by Aliko Dangote in a seven-page editorial. The response sheds light on the challenges BUA has faced over the years and its determination to overcome them.
The statement, was made available to Ejes Gist News , addresses the claims and accusations made by Aliko Dangote, characterizing them as attempts at blackmail. BUA emphasizes the need to revisit history, highlighting a history not of rivalry but of resilience and endurance.
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The response begins with an account of an incident in August 1991 when a young BUA was approached by Aliko Dangote to purchase sugar during a period of scarcity. A transaction was initiated, but a cheque from Dangote’s side bounced, leading to a court-sanctioned freeze of BUA’s assets. Despite facing adversity, BUA emerged stronger.
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The statement further reveals the obstacles BUA encountered when it attempted to establish a sugar refinery in Lagos. A land lease agreement with Usman Dantata, Aliko Dangote’s uncle, was overturned by former President Obasanjo, leading to the revocation of the lease. BUA eventually obtained a different piece of land and became the largest sugar refining concern in West Africa.
The response also recounts challenges faced during the establishment of BUA’s cement business, including resistance to docking the floating terminal in Lagos. The situation escalated when a Deputy Comptroller General, Orwell Brown, attempted to deport BUA’s expatriate crew. Prompt intervention by late President Yar Adua and the Chief Economic Adviser ensured the crew’s return.
BUA’s Edo Cement Plant faced its share of issues, leading to a Supreme Court case. Leaked emails from Dangote staff revealed attempts to disrupt BUA’s operations and generate negative publicity.
Similar challenges were reported in relation to BUA’s Port Harcourt sugar refinery. Dangote was said to employ various means to hinder the refinery’s progress. Presidential intervention was required to ensure the right course of action.
The response concludes by emphasizing BUA’s commitment to innovation, integrity, and inclusiveness. The company remains dedicated to serving Nigeria and its people and is undeterred by baseless criticism. BUA’s message to Dangote and the Dangote Group is to focus on building rather than belittling, cultivating rather than conquering, and to take responsibility for self-inflicted issues.
The statement encapsulates BUA’s history of resilience and unwavering commitment to the prosperity of Nigeria. It underscores BUA’s determination to continue building and developing the nation.
