How Ogun Customs Intercepted N241m Contrabands In Seven Days

Different contrabands worth N242m have been intercepted by the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, within seven days.

The acting Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said this on Friday, in Abeokuta, while addressing journalists.

This was also contained in a statement released on Friday, by the National Public Relations of the service, Abdullahi Maiwada.

Adeniyi said the contrabands were intercepted at different locations within the state.

He said, “Between September 18 and September 30, 2023, the officers of the Ogun 1 Area Command seized 1,436 used pneumatic tires also as tokunbo tires 53 sacks, and 569 parcels of cannabis sativa weighing 1,179 kilograms.”

“Additionally, they apprehended 3,149 bags of foreign parboiled rice, each weighing 50 kilograms, alongside 32 vehicles used for conveyance.” He narrated.

He said that the tires are not suitable for Nigerian Highways adding that a significant number of the tires have exceeded their recommended lifespan from their manufacturing date.

“According to safety experts, good-quality pneumatic tires are safe for use for only four years from the date of manufacturing. Any usage beyond this duration poses a significant risk to motorists and jeopardizes their lives.”

Adeniyi explained that the various contrabands were intercepted at different locations including, Papa/Ajegunle, Ilaro Road, Imasayi/Joga Road, Ijebu Ode axis, and Odogbolu bush path along Ijebu Ode road in Ogun State.

The customs boss reaffirmed the service’s commitment to protecting society from the entry of harmful substances and ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians.

“We are resolute in our mission to curb illicit trade, safeguard our roads from dangerous tires, and protect our youth from the devastating effects of illicit drugs. Your support and understanding are invaluable as we work together to build a safer and stronger Nigeria.

“It is essential to highlight that these seizures were 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,” Adeniyi explained.

Adeniyi said that there is a concerning abuse in the use of psychoactive drugs derived from the cannabis plant within Nigerian society, especially among the youths.