Dredgers Association disowns report accusing Lagos Commissioner, Cardozo of extortion

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Dredgers Association of Nigeria (DAN) has disowned a media report alleging extortion and harassment of dredgers and tipper operators by the Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Hon. Ekundayo Alebiosu, and Mr. Cardozo, insisting that the publication was not authorised by its leadership.

The association, in a disclaimer issued on Friday, October 23, said it neither issued nor authorised the report published by Linda Ikeji’s Blog and other online platforms, titled “Dredgers Association Appeals to Sanwo-Olu Over Alleged Extortion, Urges Governor to Call Alebiosu, Cardozo to Order.”

DAN said the publication did not originate from its national leadership or any authorised organ of the association, adding that it had neither approved nor issued any petition or press release accusing the two officials of harassment, intimidation or extortion.

In the disclaimer signed by the association’s National President, Batare Akpomejero, and National Secretary, Richard Ntan, the association also said it had no record of the alleged impounding of trucks and demand for ₦500,000 reportedly contained in the publication, stressing that it completely dissociated itself from the claims.

Reaffirming its relationship with the Lagos State Government, DAN described its engagement with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration and the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development as cordial and collaborative.

It explained that discussions concerning dredging regulations and the interpretation of Supreme Court judgments relating to shoreline authority were being pursued through appropriate institutional channels.

According to the association, dialogue with relevant federal and state authorities remains its preferred approach to resolving issues affecting dredging operations, rather than engaging in media confrontations.

Consequently, DAN urged the Lagos State Government, Alebiosu, other stakeholders and members of the public to disregard the publication as a statement issued on behalf of the association.

The association further expressed regret over any embarrassment, inconvenience or reputational damage the report might have caused the state government, the commissioner and other officials mentioned.

It reiterated its commitment to promoting lawful and sustainable dredging operations across Nigeria, while maintaining constructive engagement with government authorities and other stakeholders.