Dangote Cement Plc found itself embroiled in a misunderstanding with security agents in Adamawa State after two of its trucks, laden with 900 bags of cement each, were intercepted en route to a delivery destination in Jamtari, Maiha Local Government Area.
The security agents alleged that the drivers were attempting to smuggle the cement into the Republic of Cameroon via the Adamawa routes, contravening a recent executive order issued by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri.
However, Dangote Cement Plc swiftly refuted these claims, asserting that the trucks were simply fulfilling a customer’s request within Nigeria. Anthony Chiejina, the company’s Chief Branding and Communication Officer, clarified that Dangote Cement Plc operates a cement plant in Cameroon, rendering the alleged export unnecessary.
Chiejina emphasized that the security agents overlooked crucial details on the Waybill, failing to recognize the legitimate nature of the delivery. Following the interception, Dangote Cement Plc officials were summoned by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Adamawa State to provide clarity on the situation.
During the meeting with the DSS, the company’s representatives were able to present evidence of the trucks’ journey, tracing their movement from the DCP Obajana plant to the point of interception. This evidence, according to Chiejina, demonstrated the lawful intent behind the transportation of the cement.
