Cement, Politics, and a War of Words in Ogun State

Business and politics often make for an uneasy mix, but in Ogun State, they sometimes collide like a loaded cement truck on a slippery road. The latest controversy involves former Governor Ibikunle Amosun and Africa's richest man, Aliko Dangote, over claims that Amosun's administration twice demolished Dangote's cement factory in Itori.

In response, Amosun's media office dismissed the allegations as "obvious mischief," accusing Dangote of wanting to operate "above the law." According to the former governor, the state government enforces regulations without exceptions-if any structures were demolished, it was due to a lack of proper approvals. He challenged Dangote to provide evidence if otherwise.

Amosun's camp also took the opportunity to highlight his achievements in transforming Ogun into Nigeria's

"Industrial Capital," attracting over 500 companies and securing high rankings for ease of doing business. They recalled how former President Goodluck Jonathan visited Ogun five times to commission projects, reinforcing Amosun's legacy of economic development. However, this legacy now appears at odds with the current dispute between the state government and a major investor like Dangote.

The issue goes beyond politics-it raises concerns about business confidence in Ogun State. Investors, both local and foreign, seek stability, and the idea that multimillion-dollar facilities could be demolished over paperwork disputes may deter future investments. While Amosun maintains that his actions were based on principles rather than pressure, Dangote sees the matter as a question of economic certainty.

This standoff is far from over. Both Amosun and Dangote are known for their resilience, and neither seems ready to back down. In Nigerian politics and business, even billionaires must navigate the power dynamics carefully.

Ultimately, this dispute is less about wealth and more about who holds the authority to set the rules.