Daud Olatunji
The Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun I Area Command, has announced a significant success in its anti-smuggling operations between April and June 2024.
The Controller of the command, Comptroller James Ojo, disclosed this on Monday, during a press briefing held in Abeokuta.
Ojo reported the seizure of contraband goods valued at N770,666,237 and generated a revenue of N92,369,227 during this period.
Ojo said the revenue generated marks an impressive 52.46% increase compared to the N53,983,622 recorded in the same quarter of 2023.
According to him, the command exceeded its monthly revenue target of N34,122,666.90 by 77.86% in June 2024.
Speaking on the seizure, Ojo said 219 sacks, 1,725 parcels of cannabis sativa, 940 rounds of live ammunition, 44,466 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 2,227 pieces of pneumatic foreign-used tyres, 64 bales and 222 sacks of used clothes, 2,947 cartons of frozen poultry products, 7,015 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 21 units of vehicles, 3 units of motorcycles and 115 pairs of used shoes were seized .
Comptroller Ojo emphasised that these seizures are crucial in the agency’s ongoing battle against smuggling.
He noted that the items confiscated represent more than just numbers; they reflect the command’s dedication to protecting Nigeria’s economy, public health, and safety.
“Through our concerted efforts and strategic operations, the Ogun I Area Command has generated an impressive revenue of N92,369,227 for the second quarter of 2024.”
“This revenue represents about a 52.46% increase compared to the N53,983,622 recorded in the corresponding period of 2023,”he said .
Ojo highlighted the detrimental effects of the seized contrabands on the populace and the economy.
He also warned about the risks posed by pneumatic foreign-used tyres, commonly referred to as “Tokunbo” tyres.
These expired tyres are prone to bursting, posing a significant danger to motorists.
Similarly, smuggled poultry products often bypass regulatory checks, potentially containing harmful preservatives like formaldehyde, which can cause severe health issues.
Ojo attributed the command’s success to the hard work and professionalism of its officers, effective intelligence, and the support of traditional rulers and other security agencies in the state.
He expressed gratitude for their cooperation, which has been instrumental in the anti-smuggling campaign.
He also called for continued support from all stakeholders, including the media, to maintain the integrity of Nigeria’s borders.
Ojo urged those engaged in economic sabotage to reconsider their actions or face the full force of the law.
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