Dredgers association disowns extortion claim against Lagos commissioner

The Dredgers Association of Nigeria, DAN, has dissociated itself from a publication alleging harassment, intimidation or extortion of dredgers and tipper operators by Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Lagos State, Ekundayo Alebiosu.

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A disclaimer signed by the National President, Batare Akpomejero; and National Secretary, Richard Ntan, said that the publication of the alleged extortion did not originate from its National Leadership or any authorised organ of the association.

The group further stated that it had no record of the alleged impounding of trucks and demand for N500,000 as reported in the publication, adding that it completely dissociated itself from the claims.

Reaffirming its relationship with the Lagos State Government the group described its engagement with the government and the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development as cordial and collaborative.

On matters relating to dredging regulations and the interpretation of Supreme Court judgments concerning shoreline authority, the association explained that discussions were being pursued through appropriate institutional channels and dialogue with relevant federal and state authorities, rather than through media confrontations.

Consequently, the association urged the public, the state government, Alebiosu and other stakeholders to disregard the publication as a statement issued on behalf of the association.

The Association also expressed regret over any embarrassment, inconvenience or reputational damage the publication may have caused the government of the state and concerned officials mentioned.

However, the association reaffirmed its commitment to promoting lawful, sustainable and collaborative dredging operations across Nigeria, while maintaining constructive engagement with relevant authorities and stakeholders.