Afeni meets Olu of Ilaro, strengthens border security ahead of polls

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has intensified efforts to secure Nigeria’s borders ahead of the forthcoming elections, with a renewed focus on curbing the smuggling of arms, ammunition and illicit drugs.

Leading the initiative, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, paid a courtesy visit to the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, the Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, at his palace in Ilaro, Ogun State.

The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between security agencies and border communities in preventing the infiltration of dangerous items capable of undermining the electoral process.

Afeni noted that Yewaland’s proximity to international borders places it at the frontline of national security efforts, stressing that the region remains critical in safeguarding the country’s democratic stability.

“Our borders must not become gateways for elements seeking to destabilise our democratic process,” he said, adding that the Service is enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against the smuggling of small arms, light weapons and narcotics.

He disclosed that the Command has stepped up surveillance across identified smuggling routes and unapproved border crossings, while also strengthening engagement with community leaders to enhance intelligence gathering. According to him, stricter inspection protocols have also been introduced to prevent the concealment of prohibited items in transit goods.

In his response, Oba Olugbenle commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its proactive approach and reaffirmed the commitment of the Yewa people to maintaining peace and security.

He pledged continued support from traditional institutions, particularly in sensitising youths and residents against participating in or enabling illegal cross-border activities.

“We want peaceful elections, and that begins with ensuring that weapons do not get into the wrong hands,” the monarch said.

As part of the broader security engagement, Afeni also embarked on a strategic tour of key border communities, including visits to the palaces of the Onihumbe of Ohunbe, Oba Adekola Oje Oladokun, and the Olu of Owode, Oba Mathew Akindele.

During the visits, he reiterated the importance of collective responsibility in combating smuggling, emphasising that while the Service remains committed to facilitating legitimate trade, it will not compromise on enforcing the law.

He urged traditional rulers to continue mobilising their communities, especially young people, against involvement in illicit activities, noting that sustained collaboration would help create border corridors that are hostile to smugglers but supportive of lawful commerce.

The renewed engagement, he said, is part of a wider strategy by the Nigeria Customs Service to ensure a secure environment for free, fair and credible elections.