Dare Babalola
The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has reiterated its commitment to dismantling cross-border smuggling networks operating along the Idiroko–Republic of Benin axis, as it intensified enforcement operations targeting illicit trade in the region.
The Acting Customs Area Controller (CAC), Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, gave the assurance during a press briefing held at the Command on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, where he reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to sustain pressure on smugglers operating along the land border.
“A few weeks ago, on 16 March to be precise, the command handed over 2,543 parcels of cannabis sativa to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Idiroko Special Command and since the milestone, we have not retreated nor surrendered, instead, we refined our tactics and re-strategised,” Afeni said.
He disclosed that recent interceptions by the Command included 1,759 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, 10,126 parcels of cannabis indica (commonly known as Ghanaian Loud), 2,685 kegs of vegetable oil, and 14,550 litres of Premium Motor Spirit concealed in jerricans.
Other seized items, according to him, comprised 20 cartons of turkey-flavoured vegetable oil, 226 cartons of Basmati rice, 205 packs of footwear, 26 sacks of raw cannabis sativa, 66 bales of second-hand clothing, and 11 kegs of diesel, among others.
The Acting CAC estimated the total duty-paid value of the seized items at over ₦6.77 billion, warning that smuggling activities—particularly illicit drugs and prohibited foreign goods—pose significant threats to public health, local production, and national security.
He also urged compliant traders to remain law-abiding, assuring them of the Command’s continued engagement and support.
“Our doors are widely open for consultation and required support. Security and trade are two sides of the same coin at our Command,” he added.
In line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, the seized cannabis sativa was formally handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and destruction.
Receiving the consignment, the Commander of the NDLEA Idiroko Special Area Command, Commander Ekundayo Williams, commended the operation, describing it as a significant boost in the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
“This is not just an ordinary administrative procedure, but a strong signal to merchants of death that the Nigeria Customs Service and NDLEA share a strong collaboration in the anti-smuggling fight,” Williams stated.
