Customs CG commends Ogun 1 command, unveils N241m Seized Illicit Drugs, Rice

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

Acting Comptroller General of Nigerian Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has commended the Ogun 1 Command of the Service for the giant stride of seizing illicit drugs, rice and prohibited used tyres worth N241,977,943 in barely two weeks.

Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi who disclosed this at a media briefing in Abeokuta on Friday, October 6,2023 said the seizures are a demonstration of the service’s commitment to the renewed hope vision of President Bola Tinubu towards protection of local industries and increased collection of revenue.

Adeniyi while giving details of the seizure said, “Today, we are delighted to report that our commitment to our citizens remains steadfast, as we fulfill our statutory obligations and shield our beloved nation from the scourge of illicit drugs.

“Our officers’ relentless efforts and unwavering dedication in Zone A, specifically the Ogun 1 Area Command, have borne fruit, leading to the interception of Cannabis Sativa, used Pneumatic Tyres, and vehicles laden with 50kg bags of foreign parboiled rice. Allow me to provide the details of these significant seizures:

Deputy Comptroller Bello Shuaibu taking the Comptroller General Adeniyi round

“Between September 18 and September 30, 2023, the officers of the Ogun 1 Area Command seized 1,436 used Pneumatic tyres, 53 sacks, and 569 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, weighing a total of 1,179 kilograms. Additionally, they apprehended 3,149 bags of foreign parboiled rice, each weighing 50 kilograms, alongside 32 vehicles used for conveyance, among other items.These seizures’ Duty Paid Value (DPV) amounts to an impressive N241,977,943.00.

“These seizures were executed at various locations, including Papa/Ajegunle, Ilaro road, Imasayi/Joga road, Ijebu Ode axis, and Odogbolu bush path along Ijebu Ode road in Ogun State.

“It is essential to highlight that these seizures are a testament to our renewed determination and strategic deployment of both human and material resources. Our commitment to protecting Nigerians from the audacious actions of daredevil smugglers remains unwavering” the customs boss said.

He explained further that every grain of rice in various customs warehouses across the country is symbolic about the losses being recorded by smugglers while reiterating the service commitment to continually fight the menace of the unlawful activity in Ogun and other parts of the country.

The Acting CGC, commended Deputy Comptroller Shuaibu and members of his team while stating further that time will tell on the issue of promotion and commendation as ways to motivate officers to do more for the country.
Deputy Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu, Controller of the command was posted to the area about two weeks ago.