The Dangote Group has dismissed reports suggesting a rift between its president, Aliko Dangote, and Tony Elumelu, describing the claims as false and misleading.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the company’s spokesperson, Anthony Chiejina, said the publication alleging a fallout between both business leaders was “false, malicious, and baseless.”

“The Dangote Group has become aware of a publication titled ‘Aliko Dangote Speaks Out on Why He Distanced Himself from Tony Elumelu,’ which is false, malicious, and baseless. At no time did the president or the Group make such statements or express such sentiments,” the statement read.

The company also rejected claims that the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals project was financed through personal borrowing from friends, describing the assertions as inaccurate and a deliberate misrepresentation.

“The Group categorically rejects claims that the development of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals was financed through personal borrowing from friends. These assertions are wholly inaccurate and constitute a deliberate misrepresentation of facts. As a matter of principle, Aliko Dangote neither finances his projects through personal borrowing from friends nor engages in lending arrangements of that nature. Any individual making such claims should provide verifiable evidence to substantiate them,” the statement added.

Addressing speculation about a strained relationship, the firm maintained that there is no dispute between Dangote and Elumelu. “Equally false are suggestions of any estrangement between Aliko Dangote and Mr. Tony Elumelu, with whom he maintains a longstanding and cordial relationship.”

The group further raised concerns over the increasing spread of fabricated content, including the unauthorised use of Dangote’s name, image, and likeness in AI-generated advertisements and misleading materials, warning that such actions could result in reputational damage and potential fraud.

It warned individuals and organisations involved in creating or disseminating such content to desist immediately or face legal consequences.

The Dangote Group reaffirmed its commitment to integrity, noting that it will continue to promote industrialisation, economic self-sufficiency, and sustainable development across Africa.