A major fuel diversion case has rocked Nigeria’s oil sector as an Indian citizen and 12 others were arraigned in Lagos over the illegal diversion of diesel worth over ₦4 billion, belonging to Dangote Industries Limited.
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The suspects, including Tukur Shamsudden — an Indian national — were brought before Justice Deinde Dipeolu at the Federal High Court in Lagos by the Police Special Fraud Unit, Ikoyi. They face 16 counts of conspiracy, unlawful diversion, and receiving proceeds of illegally diverted Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
Prosecuting counsel, M.Y. Bello, told the court that the defendants—comprising Dangote staff and transport contractors—illegally redirected AGO between January 2022 and December 2023. They were responsible for transporting fuel from Dangote depots to its Ibese and Obajana plants.
The prosecution revealed that Shamsudden, acting for Regal Gate Ltd, Alkham Ltd, and Prestige Ltd, diverted 1,530,893 litres of diesel valued at ₦1.53 billion. Another key accused, Omojowo Emmanuel, allegedly diverted 2,455,229 litres valued at ₦2.45 billion while working for Opetrus Global Ltd.
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Other firms involved include Arigen Integrated, Obat Limited, Amaiden Energy, and Opetrus Global, raising broader concerns about fuel distribution integrity in the country.
According to the charge sheet, their actions violate Sections 21(a) and 18(2)(d) of the Money Laundering Act, 2022, and Sections 390 and 516 of the Criminal Code.
All 13 accused pleaded not guilty. Some had previously secured bail under earlier proceedings. Bello informed the court of an amended charge following new arrests involving Shamsudden and two others.
Justice Dipeolu adjourned the trial to July 22 and 23, 2025, for commencement of full hearing.
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This case highlights the continued threat of corruption in Nigeria’s petroleum sector, despite reform efforts. Industry stakeholders have called for stricter audits and transparency in distribution contracts.
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