The management of Abuja Steel Company has firmly refuted claims connecting the company to the acquisition and processing of stolen manhole covers.
In a statement released on Tuesday by the company’s representative, Chethan Kumar, the allegations were termed “false and misleading.”
The declaration follows the arrest of 50 suspects by the Federal Capital Territory Police Command for allegedly damaging streetlights and manhole covers. Abuja Steel Company was allegedly involved as a partner in the theft.
Denying the claims, Kumar highlighted that the company functions within a large industrial framework and does not participate in minor transactions with individuals or unapproved agents.
“The Abuja Steel Company is a conscientious, tax-compliant entity dedicated to ethical and transparent business operations, rigorous compliance with industry standards, and has no record of engagement in dubious or unlawful actions,” the statement stated.
The company provided additional details about its operational guidelines, emphasizing its shift from scrap metals to direct reduced iron ore obtained from its affiliated entity, African Natural Resources and Mines Limited.
“We are a top-tier company and part of a conglomerate that is Nigeria’s largest steel manufacturer.
“We are the sole steel manufacturing group completely integrated with an iron-ore mining and processing facility located in Gujeni, Kaduna State,” the company explained.
To safeguard its reputation, Abuja Steel Company has launched a comprehensive internal inquiry and committed to complete collaboration with law enforcement to reveal the truth.
Kumar stated, “Abuja Steel Company is entirely dedicated and will collaborate with law enforcement agencies to reveal the truth and ensure that those accountable for the theft and vandalism of public infrastructure face justice.”
The firm encouraged the public and its customers to ignore the allegations, characterizing them as an effort by interested parties to damage its reputation.
“Our company prides itself on being a cornerstone of responsible industrial practices in the Federal Capital Territory and beyond. We stand resolutely against all forms of vandalism and theft that endanger public infrastructure and safety and remain dedicated to contributing positively to Nigeria’s economic development and maintaining public trust,” the statement concluded.
Abuja Steel Company expressed confidence that ongoing investigations would exonerate it from the allegations and reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the highest standards of corporate responsibility.
