Hackers Highjack Mobile Phones of Dangote, Otedola, Demand Ransom in Targeted Cyberattack
A sophisticated hacking incident has compromised the mobile phones of two of Nigeria’s most influential businessmen, Aliko Dangote and Femi Otedola, triggering heightened security concerns around high-profile cyberattacks in the country.
According to an exclusive report by TheCable, the breach occurred over the past week, with sources close to both men confirming that their devices were infiltrated by unidentified hackers.
Otedola’s phone was reportedly compromised once, while Dangote suffered two separate intrusions within forty-eight hours.
Insiders disclosed that the hackers have made financial demands, indicating that the attack may be aimed at extortion rather than espionage, though the full extent of the breach remains unclear.
It is not yet known whether the attackers accessed sensitive business information, personal data, or communication records belonging to the two industrial giants.
The report adds that it is still uncertain whether Dangote and Otedola have fully regained control of their devices. Details about the hacking method—whether it involved SIM swap, malware installation, phishing, or another technique—have not been publicly disclosed.
The development has sparked concerns within corporate and security circles, given the strategic roles both men play in Nigeria’s economic structure. Dangote oversees a multi-billion-dollar conglomerate spanning cement, energy, and the newly operational Dangote Refinery, while Otedola is a key shareholder in First HoldCo Plc and has interests across finance, energy, and logistics.
Cybersecurity analysts warn that the incident underscores the rising trend of targeted attacks on high-net-worth individuals and business executives across Africa.
They note that such breaches may expose confidential business strategies, financial operations, and sensitive communications if not swiftly contained.
As of the time of reporting, neither Dangote nor Otedola has issued a public statement, and there has been no official comment from law-enforcement or cybersecurity agencies.
The incident is expected to prompt intensified scrutiny of digital security protocols within major Nigerian corporations and among the country’s elite business community.
