Customs: Ogun I Command hands over 3,000kg hard drugs, calls for residents’ support

The Ogun I Customs Area Command led by Comptroller Muhammed Shuaibu has disclosed the handing over of 3,365 parcels and 75 sacks of cannabis sativa weighing 3,103.3kg, as well as 88 cartons of codeine cough syrup to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Ogun State Command for proper disposal and further investigation.

According to an e-signed statement by the Command’s spokesperson CSC HB Oloyede, the items handed over reflected the ongoing efforts of the Command to curb the distribution of illegal narcotics within the country, which pose significant threats to the health and safety of our citizens.

Comptroller Shuaibu noted that, at the last briefing, the Command declared its resolve to eradicate illegal trade in dangerous drugs and other contraband within its operational areas.

“Since that time, and within the past two weeks, our operatives have significantly increased their efforts to combat smuggling, leading to the successful interception of a variety of prohibited items.

“I take this opportunity to call on the public to continue supporting the Command in its fight against smuggling. It is only through collective effort that we can safeguard our country and realize the vision of our founding fathers.

“As we move forward, I want to reiterate that the Command will continue to enforce Federal Government policies in a manner that aligns with global best practices, ensuring that we maintain high standards of operations”.

The statement further that, “the Customs Service Act, 2024, specifically sections 6, 212, 226, 233, and 245, grants Customs officers significant powers, including the authority to patrol freely, seize smuggled goods, detain contraband items, condemn illegal goods, and enter premises.

“These legal powers have been crucial in enabling us to perform our duties with efficacy.

“Since assuming office at the Command, we have implemented various strategies that have resulted in numerous successful seizures, including:

1. Smuggled Foreign Rice: 2,145 Bags, which is more than 4 trailers load of rice.
2. Second-Hand Clothing: 612 Bales.
3. Used Tires: 843 Pieces.
4. Premium Motor Spirit (PMS): 6,625 litres which has been auctioned due to its combustible nature.
5. Cannabis Sativa in coconut sizes: 1,057 Parcels.
6. Cannabis Sativa in bread sizes: 159 Parcels.
7. Cannabis Sativa in book sizes: 2,074 Parcels.
8. Cannabis Sativa in sacks: 75 Sacks. This brings the total marijuana seized to 3,365 parcels and 75 sacks weighing 3,103.3kg.

The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the entire seizures amount to N279,595,038.00.

“I am also pleased to announce that the Command has generated a total of N9,694,072 as revenue from baggage assessment and auction sales of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

“This contribution to the national revenue is an important aspect of our duty to support the financial objectives of the Federal Government.

“In a bid to upscale the revenue profile of the Command, and by extension to enhance the economic growth as well as national security of the nation, I wish to highlight the recent stakeholders’ meeting held on 3 March 2025.

“During the meeting, we convened a crucial dialogue on the challenges affecting the free flow of legitimate cross-border trade. The meeting, hosted by Ogun 1 Command, brought together Customs officers from Ogun 1 and Benin, Secretary-General Inter-Border Security Forum, security agencies, and clearing agents from both Nigeria and the Benin Republic.

“This engagement was pivotal in identifying solutions to enhance trade and security at the Benin Republic-Idiroko border corridor.

“These actions send a clear and unequivocal message to those who engage in illegal activities: the operatives of Ogun 1 Command will continue to carry out their statutory responsibilities with dedication, ensuring that such illegal enterprises do not thrive in our area of responsibility.

“We will remain relentless in our fight against smugglers. Every tactic employed by criminals to circumvent security checks will be futile, as our intelligence network, systematic monitoring, and operational mechanisms are robust and effective in identifying and tracking these economic saboteurs and their sponsors.

“Our primary focus will always remain on ensuring that our borders are secure and that national interests are protected.

“This also includes ensuring compliance with international trade agreements and safeguarding our national security.

“We are grateful to all Nigerians, particularly our local business communities, for their continued support.

“I also commend the media for their balanced reporting.

“On a final note, I humbly extend my sincere gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and his management team for their continued confidence in our ability to execute our duties with excellence and dedication.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to the traditional leaders, sister security agencies, distinguished personalities, host communities, and the media for their unwavering collaboration and support in our fight against smuggling. Your collective efforts continue to play a critical role in maintaining the security and integrity of our nation”, the statement concluded.