The Enugu State Police Command has said that the truck involved in a recent crash along the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway does not belong to Dangote Group but to Visco Investment Global Limited, a third-party operator.
In a statement on Wednesday, the police confirmed that two separate accidents occurred that same day, along the Ozalla/4-Corner axis, resulting in 10 deaths and 10 people hospitalised.
The first crash, which happened around 9 a.m., involved a Howo truck branded Visco Investment Global, a Toyota Corolla, a Foton bus and a Daihatsu Hijet mini bus.
The truck and the Corolla went up in flames, killing five occupants of the car, while another passenger in the mini bus also died.
The second crash, around 3 p.m., involved a Sino truck operated by Global Investment and a tricycle.
Police said the truck, also carrying cement, collided with the tricycle, killing its four occupants.
Ten others sustained injuries from both incidents and are still receiving treatment.
Commissioner of Police, Mamman Giwa, described the crashes as avoidable, ordered an investigation and urged motorists to prioritise safety during the Ember months.
The police statement followed reports linking the truck to Dangote Group.
Dangote Group clarified in a statement that the vehicle was not part of its fleet, adding that it belongs to Visco Investment Global Limited.
The statement read, “Investigations have revealed that the truck belongs to Visco Investment Global Limited.”
The company added, “We are engaging with the appropriate agencies to find out why the truck was carrying our logo when it is not part of our fleet.”
“We urge the public and the media to refrain from circulating unverified claims,” the company said, adding that it would tighten measures against the unauthorised use of its brand identity.
“We strongly reject attempts to exploit tragedies like this for malicious or financial gain.”
The group said it would cooperate with investigators.
“We are committed to cooperating fully with the relevant authorities and insist that investigations should be allowed to run their course without interference.”
In recent years, Dangote-branded trucks have repeatedly been linked to road accidents across the country, fuelling public criticism and social media backlash.
Ruth Otabor, the younger sister of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Phyna Otabor, died following a leg amputation after being hit by a truck linked to the Dangote Group near Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State.
