Stakeholders in Nigeria’s iron and steel sector have raised concerns over alleged attempts by Kogi monarchs to obstruct the investigation into the Ajaokuta Steel and NIOMCO from 2008 to date. The focus of the investigation, they assert, is pivotal for the sector’s future. Dr. Nicholas Okonkwo, Chairman of the Nigerian Steel and Automotive Industry Forum, accused the Kogi State Government of orchestrating moves against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s efforts to revive the sector, emphasizing the necessity of an unbiased investigation.

At the 4th Ajaokuta Steel Plant Revival Summit in Abuja, speakers disassociated traditional rulers from the Ebira ethnic group, affirming their trust in President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Chief Godswill Akpabio to conduct a thorough investigation. In a letter to Chief Godswill Akpabio, Kogi’s traditional rulers urged collaboration for the common good, emphasizing the need for cautious and statesmanlike handling of the Ajaokuta Steel Plant and NIOMCO.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s motion to probe alleged corruption and inefficiency at the companies underscores the stakeholders’ push for accountability. They demand scrutiny of the $496 payment to Mr. Pramod Mittal by the Federal Government in September 2022. Additionally, stakeholders advocate for policy and legal reviews, dissolution of sole administratorship, and the establishment of a structured management board for Ajaokuta Steel Company.

While the monarchs call for legislative cooperation, they also stress the potential benefits of revitalizing Ajaokuta and Itakpe, including employment generation, technological advancement, and economic growth. They lauded President Tinubu’s commitment to the sector’s development and urged collaborative support for government initiatives, emphasizing the need to avoid distractions that could impede progress.

The stakeholders’ stance reflects a collective determination to address longstanding challenges in Nigeria’s iron and steel sector, signaling a pivotal moment for the industry’s revival.