Hackers have gained access to the mobile phones of Aliko Dangote, chief executive of the Dangote Group, and Femi Otedola, chairman of First HoldCo Plc.
Sources close to the billionaire businessmen confirmed that the breaches happened within the past week. Otedola’s phone was compromised once, while Dangote’s device was reportedly hacked twice in two days. It is not yet clear if either businessman has fully regained control of their phones.
“The hackers are asking for money from both men,” an insider told TheCable.
Dangote and Otedola share a long friendship and often refer to each other as brothers. Their bond has been evident at business events and family occasions over the years.
Their relationship has also been visible in recent industry debates.
Otedola also attended Dangote’s announcement of plans to increase the refinery’s capacity from 650,000 to 1.4 million barrels per day. At the event, he praised his friend’s long-term investments.
He publicly backed Dangote during his dispute with the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN). He hailed the progress of the Dangote refinery, describing its success as a “historic leap for Nigeria’s energy independence and economic future.”
Dangote travelled to Iceland for the first time in September to attend the wedding of Otedola’s daughter Temi and singer Mr Eazi, a gesture that underscored their personal closeness.
