The Dredgers Association of Nigeria (DAN) has dissociated itself from a media report alleging extortion, harassment and intimidation involving the Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Hon. Ekundayo Alebiosu, and a man identified as Mr. Cardozo.
In a disclaimer issued on October 23, 2026, the association said a publication titled “Dredgers Association Appeals to Sanwo-Olu Over Alleged Extortion, Urges Governor to Call Alebiosu, Cardozo to Order,” published by Linda Ikeji’s Blog and other online platforms, did not originate from its national leadership or any authorised organ of the association.
DAN maintained that it neither authorised nor approved the publication and had not issued any petition or press statement accusing the commissioner or Cardozo of extorting dredgers and tipper operators.
The association’s clarification follows the circulation of allegations concerning the alleged impounding of trucks and a demand for ₦500,000. However, DAN said it had no record of the reported incident and completely disassociated itself from the claims.
Association Reaffirms Cordial Relationship With Lagos Government
The association reaffirmed its relationship with the Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, describing its engagement with the government and the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development as cordial and collaborative.
According to DAN, matters relating to dredging regulations and the interpretation of Supreme Court judgments concerning shoreline authority are being addressed through appropriate institutional channels.
The association explained that discussions were ongoing with relevant federal and state authorities, emphasising dialogue and formal engagement rather than public confrontations through the media.
The clarification suggests that DAN wants issues affecting dredging activities and shoreline regulation to be handled through established procedures rather than through statements it says were not authorised by its leadership.
DAN Urges Public to Disregard Publication
DAN called on the public, the Lagos State Government, Commissioner Alebiosu and other stakeholders to disregard the report as a statement issued on behalf of the association.
It also expressed regret over any embarrassment, inconvenience or reputational damage the publication might have caused the state government, the commissioner and other officials mentioned.
The association stressed that its position should not be confused with the allegations contained in the disputed report, reiterating that the publication did not represent its official stance.
The disclaimer was issued by the association’s National President, Batare Akpomejero, and National Secretary, Richard Ntan.
Commitment to Lawful Dredging Operations
DAN reaffirmed its commitment to promoting lawful, sustainable and collaborative dredging operations across Nigeria.
It said it would continue engaging relevant authorities and stakeholders constructively on issues affecting the industry.
Dredging activities are important to waterfront development, shoreline management and related infrastructure projects. Regulatory disagreements in the sector can involve questions of jurisdiction, compliance and the responsibilities of government agencies.
DAN’s statement underscores its preference for resolving such matters through dialogue and institutional engagement.
The association’s disclaimer addresses whether the disputed publication represented its official position. The allegations against the named officials remain separate claims and should not be treated as established facts on the basis of the supplied statement.
