The Management of Abuja Steel Company has categorically refuted allegations linking the organisation to the purchase or sale of stolen manhole covers, describing the claims as baseless and misleading. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Chethan Kumar, the company’s spokesperson, dismissed reports suggesting its involvement in such illegal activities, following the arrest of 50 suspects by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command for theft of public infrastructure, including manhole covers and streetlights.
The spokesperson asserted that Abuja Steel Company operates exclusively as a large-scale industrial enterprise and does not engage in small-scale transactions with unauthorised individuals or agents.
“Abuja Steel Company is a responsible, tax-paying organisation committed to ethical and transparent business practices. We adhere strictly to industry regulations and have no history of involvement in illegal activities,” the statement emphasised.
As part of its defence, the company highlighted its unique status as Nigeria’s largest integrated steel producer. “We are part of a group with an iron-ore mining and processing facility in Gujeni, Kaduna State, and we are transitioning from scrap metals to direct reduced iron-ore. These allegations are inconsistent with our operational principles and values,” Kumar added.
The company revealed that it has initiated an internal investigation and is collaborating with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those responsible for the vandalism and theft of public infrastructure are brought to justice.
Abuja Steel also urged the public to disregard these claims, labelling them an attempt by vested interests to tarnish its reputation.
“Our company stands against all forms of vandalism and theft. We are dedicated to Nigeria’s economic growth and remain resolute in upholding public trust and safety,” the statement concluded.
This incident underscores the broader issue of infrastructure vandalism in Nigeria and the need for robust enforcement and community awareness to safeguard public assets.
