The House of Representatives Joint Committee issued a strong warning to Dangote Cement regarding the recent unilateral increase in the price of cement.
During a public hearing on the arbitrary increment of cement prices in Nigeria, the Committee expressed serious concern over the absence of Dangote Cement officials and has threatened to take necessary legal actions, including potential arrest, should the company fail to appear at the next hearing.
The Committee emphasized the need for cement manufacturers to address the current economic situation in Nigeria by revising the prices of their products to make them more affordable for the citizens.
Additionally, the Committee has summoned the Cement Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and the Central Bank of Nigeria to present their perspectives and explore potential solutions to alleviate the financial burden caused by the increased cement prices.
Jonathan Gbefwi, the Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, condemned the lack of consideration for the public's welfare by cement manufacturers and emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue.
“They want to over-profit without any sense of empathy for the citizens that have given them this platform.
“On Dangote, my ruling is simple. The laws have given us the necessary powers but we owe you a duty of care. We are going to give you one more chance. We are going to communicate a date.
“Failure to comply with that date, a subpoena will be issued. A warrant of arrest will be given for you to make an appearance before the National Assembly. No single individual is bigger than the parliament of his country. No single Nigerian is bigger than the National Assembly”, Jonathan warned.