A fresh controversy has emerged around BUA Cement, following allegations of irregularities in its scholarship scheme in Okpella, Edo State.
Tensions in the community have escalated after a group, Ukhomuyio Concerned Citizens, rejected the recently released scholarship list, describing it as “deeply compromised and manipulated.”
Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Group
In a strongly worded statement obtained by The Octopus News on Monday, the group accused the Rabiu Samad-led company of overseeing a selection process allegedly marred by nepotism, favouritism, and disregard for qualified Okpella students.
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According to the group, more than 10 per cent of the beneficiaries are allegedly linked, directly or indirectly, to the Sado family, a claim it said raises concerns about undue influence in the process. It further alleged that a significant number of those listed as undergraduate beneficiaries had already completed their studies, describing the situation as “a calculated attempt to sideline deserving youths.”
The group also claimed that some individuals without verifiable academic records, as well as non-indigenes with no clear ties to Okpella, were included on the list. It described the development as “an affront to a community already grappling with economic hardship and limited access to traditional livelihoods such as farming.”
“This is not just an error; it reflects a pattern of systemic injustice,” the statement read. “What should have been a support system for students has allegedly been turned into an instrument of exclusion.”
Rejecting the list in its entirety, the group said it would escalate the matter by petitioning the company’s corporate headquarters and relevant regulatory and investigative bodies, insisting that those responsible be held accountable.
It also warned that the controversy could strain relations between the company and its host community if urgent corrective measures are not taken.
“Corporate social responsibility must be guided by fairness and transparency,” the group stated. “Anything short of that undermines trust and damages long-standing relationships.”
Beyond the scholarship issue, the group raised concerns over what it described as attempts by certain actors to use the company’s platform to advance a disputed traditional leadership claim. It cited a recent visit to the company’s Lagos office by Mr. Mike Sado, noting that there is an existing court judgment related to the matter.
Describing the situation as potentially volatile, the group cautioned that any perceived endorsement of contested claims could heighten tensions within the community.
It also called on Monday Okpebholo to ensure adherence to the rule of law and avoid actions that could be interpreted as taking sides in local disputes.
The group concluded by warning that residents of Okpella would resist any process they believe undermines fairness, transparency, or the future prospects of their youths.
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