Group Blames Competitors for Media Attacks on Intels

A group known as Concerned Maritime Professionals (CMP) has condemned incessant media attacks on leading logistics service provider, Intels Nigeria Limited.

In a letter to the acting President Yemi Osinbajo, copies of which were made available to journalists, CMP alleged that the attacks were being sponsored by Intels’ competitors for selfish motives.

The letter, titled, ‘Need to Call to Order Competitors Who Are Sponsoring Media Attacks Against INTELS Nigeria Limited’, was signed by its Coordinator, Mazi Charles Obi. According to CMP, “Our attention has been drawn to incessant attacks in the media against private terminal operators in the Nigerian maritime industry, especially Intels Nigeria Limited, which is one of the few thriving businesses and the largest employer of labour in the maritime sector.

“Despite the harsh economic environment, the company has weathered the storm, offering world-class services that could compete both nationally and internationally. Recently we have seen organised attacks in the media against the company that has served as robust revenue source for the government especially at this time when so many companies are on bended knees. We consider this uncalled for more so when the attacks are obviously sponsored by competitors and are politically motivated.

CMP said while it is not holding brief for Intels and would stand up for any company in Nigeria unjustly pummelled by any group, it wants the federal government to caution media houses from being used by competitors to run down the few thriving businesses in Nigeria.

“Recently we see the trend of attacks against Intels Nigeria Ltd, ranging from unfounded allegations of monopoly and alleged indebtedness. The entire plot by competitors smell of mischief. To be sure, Intels is not the only company in the Onne free zone and so cannot be accused of monopoly. There are close to 200 firms that operate in the zone with each of them professionally managed and duly regulated by appropriate agencies of government. Intels has operated in the zone for three decades and made meaningful contributions to the socio-economic development of the country.