IDIROKO BORDER: NCS Intercepts, Hard Drugs, Foreign Rice Other Contrabands Worth Over N380M

The Ogun I Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has revealed a significant interception, with contraband valued at N380 million confiscated during a recent operation.

Comptroller James Ojo, the newly appointed Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Command, held his maiden press briefing to highlight the Command’s achievements in combating smuggling activities within the state. The event, held at the Command’s conference room in Idiroko, Abeokuta, gathered media representatives to hear about the Command’s accomplishments since Comptroller Ojo assumed office on April 16, 2024.

Comptroller Ojo while emphasizing the Command’s proactive stance against smuggling noted that within just 23 days of his tenure, the Command made significant seizures totaling 103 items, including 90 sacks and 1,309 parcels of cannabis sativa, 1,596 pieces of foreign-used pneumatic tyres, and 2,922 bags of foreign parboiled rice of 50kg each.

According to the CAC, the cumulative Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized items amounted to an impressive N380,370,911.

Compt. Ojo underscored the detrimental effects of some of the seized items on society, particularly cannabis sativa, which poses serious health risks, especially to youths, and has been linked to various criminal activities.

Comptroller Ojo also highlighted the dangers associated with foreign-used pneumatic tyres, emphasizing their unsuitability for Nigerian roads due to age-related wear and tear.

Regarding foreign parboiled rice, he reiterated the Federal Government’s ban on its importation through land borders to promote local production and food security. Comptroller Ojo urged support for this policy, emphasizing its long-term benefits for Nigeria’s economy.

In addition to anti-smuggling efforts, the Command generated N14,628,661 in revenue through baggage assessment and auction sales of petroleum products. Comptroller Ojo acknowledged challenges in trading activities across the border but expressed optimism that ongoing efforts would improve revenue generation.

He issued a stern warning to economic saboteurs engaged in smuggling activities, promising strict enforcement of the law against offenders. Comptroller Ojo concluded by reaffirming the Command’s commitment to its mandate and thanked the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, and his management team for their support.

The press briefing concluded with an appreciation for the dedication of Customs officers and stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of mutual cooperation in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic growth and social well-being.