The Ogun 1 Command of the Nigeria Customs Service at Idiroko Border has made a seizure of 103 items of Duty Paid Value (DPV) worth N380,370,911 and generated revenue of N14,628,661 within 23 days of the assumption of Comptroller James Ojo as the Area Controller of the Command.
Comptroller James Ojo, during his maiden press briefing at Abeokuta recalled that since he took over the leadership of the Command on 16 April 2024 from his predecessor, Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu , they hit the ground running.
He stated that the seized items were intercepted at different locations within Ogun State, with the aid of intensive intelligence strategies and concerted efforts of the Command’s intelligence network such as the Customs Intelligence Unit, DSS and others.
While giving a breakdown of the seized items, he said “the Command made a total seizure of 103 items comprising 90 sacks and 1,309 parcels of cannabis sativa;1,596 pieces of foreign used pneumatic tyres; 2,922 bags of foreign parboiled rice of 50kg each; 32 bales of used clothes, 1,603 Cartons of frozen poultry products, and 22,600 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, among others. The cumulative Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized items amount to N380,600,911”
” To complement our anti-smuggling exploits, the Command generated the sum of N14,628,661 as revenue through baggage assessment and auction sales of petroleum products. Presently, the trading activities across the border is not encouraging but effort is ongoing to address the identified challenges that hinder the flow of trade. We are hopeful that this will enhance our revenue profile significantly”
The Ogun 1 Command Area Controller highlighted the adverse effect of the seized items on the wellbeing of the citizens, especially the cannabis sativa, pneumatic tyres and foreign rice.
“Cannabis Sativa, commonly known as marijuana or Indian hemp is a psychoactive drug that is derived from the cannabis plant. It has devastating effect on the lives of its consumers, especially our youths. The rise in its abuse is of great concern within the Nigerian society and a threat to our national security, due to its potential influence on criminal activities, such as armed robbery, banditry, cultism, kidnapping terrorism and other criminalistics”
“Foreign-used Pneumatic Tyres, more commonly known as Tokunbo tyres, are ring-shaped protective coverings made of rubber and filled with compressed air, typically used in foreign countries, and shipped into the country after use over Seas. These tyres are deemed unsuitable for our highways because, significant number of them have exceeded their recommended lifespan from their manufacturing dates. According to safety experts, good-quality pneumatic tyres are safe for use for only four years from the date of manufacturing. Any usage beyond this duration poses a significant risk to motorists and put their lives in jeopardy”
“Rice is a staple food eaten in many homes in the country. Its importation through the land borders was prohibited by the Federal Government of Nigerian (FGN) to encourage local production and be self-sufficient, as Nigeria is blessed with vast and fertile lands. This policy of the FGN may be perceived as difficult and unfriendly, but has a long-term great benefit when embraced. For instance, the much-appreciated foreign rice is a local produce in the countries of exportation, and these countries commenced their production with insignificant quantity before getting to their present commercial status.
” In a nutshell, the persistent smuggling of rice will continue to hamper our economic growth and development as a nation. We will overcome the economic situation in the country by Godās grace. Let us give the required support and cooperation to Nigeria Customs Service, and by extension to the FGN to improve our social security and economic wellbeing”
He encouraged complaint traders to remain complaint while he appreciated the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi and officers of the Command for their efforts.
” Let me use this medium to encourage our compliant traders to remain steadfast and be assured of our maximum cooperation. Our doors are widely open for consultation and required support. On this note, I will like to send a note of warning to economic saboteurs to steer clear of smuggling activities and embrace legitimate trade. Anyone caught in the act will be made to face the wrath of the law”
” The Command wishes to reaffirm our dedication to duty and commitment to ensuring safety and well-being of our people. We remain resolute in carrying out our mandate in Ogun State with utmost patriotism” he said
