Abuja Steel Mills Denies Allegations of Involvement in Stolen Manhole Covers
Abuja Steel Mills Limited has strongly denied allegations linking it to the purchase and smelting of stolen manhole covers from roads in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), describing the claims as baseless and inconsistent with its values and operational standards.
In a statement signed by the company’s spokesperson, Chethan Kumar, Abuja Steel Mills reiterated its commitment to ethical practices and pledged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to identify those responsible for the theft and vandalism of public infrastructure.
“The company is fully committed and will cooperate with law enforcement agencies to uncover the truth and bring those responsible for the theft and vandalism of public infrastructure to justice. I am confident that ongoing investigations will exonerate the company from the accusations,” Kumar said.
He further emphasized that Abuja Steel operates on a large-scale industrial framework and does not engage in small-scale transactions with individuals or unauthorized agents. He added that any insinuation of such dealings is “false and misleading.”
The company’s director, Dr. John Akanya, also addressed the allegations, stating, “We are a world-class company and part of a group of companies that is the largest steel producer in Nigeria. We are the only steel manufacturing group fully integrated with an iron-ore mining and processing factory at Gujeni, Kaduna State.
Read also: Probe Launched Into Abuja Steel Company’s Alleged Involve In Highway Manhole Cover Thefts
“As such, we are already moving away from scrap metals to direct reduced iron-ore from our sister company, African Natural Resources and Mines Limited (ANRML). Again, the company has initiated a thorough investigation into the matter and the source of the condemnable allegation in order to uphold its reputation and ensure accountability.”
Abuja Steel Mills urged the public to disregard the allegations, attributing them to vested interests attempting to tarnish its hard-earned reputation. The company also reaffirmed its stance against vandalism and theft, highlighting its dedication to contributing to Nigeria’s economic development and maintaining public trust.
Kumar concluded by stating that Abuja Steel Mills takes pride in its role as a cornerstone of responsible industrial practices in the FCT and beyond, reinforcing its commitment to ethical operations and public safety.
