Follow Us on Google
From Laide Raheem, Abeokuta
The Customs Area Controller in charge of Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller James Ojo, has revealed the reasons behind the command’s intensified fight against the smuggling of illicit substances, particularly Cannabis Sativa, into the country.
According to Ojo, the rise in the abuse of smuggled marijuana, also known as Indian hemp, and its devastating effects on consumers, especially youths, has prompted the command to tighten the noose around smugglers of the illicit drug.
Speaking to newsmen in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Thursday, Ojo emphasized the growing concern and national security threat posed by Cannabis Sativa as a psychoactive drug within Nigerian society. He added that due to marijuana’s potential influence on consumers, criminal activities such as armed robbery, banditry, cultism, kidnapping, and terrorism have been on the rise. He emphasized that his command’s operatives will remain relentless in their fight to prevent the smuggling of dangerous substances into the country.
During the 23 days since Ojo assumed office, the Ogun 1 Area Command has made significant seizures. These include 90 sacks and 1,309 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, 1,596 pieces of foreign-used tyres, 2,922 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each), 32 bundles of used clothes, 1,603 cartons of frozen poultry products, and 22,600 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), among others.
The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized items intercepted at different locations within Ogun State is estimated at N380,370,912.
In terms of revenue generation, the command generated N14,628,661 through baggage assessment and auction sales of seized petroleum products.
“Presently, the trading activities across the border are not encouraging, but efforts are ongoing to address the identified challenges that hinder the flow of trade. We are hopeful that this will enhance our revenue profile significantly,” Ojo stated.
He encouraged compliant traders to remain steadfast and assured them of the command’s maximum cooperation. He emphasized that their doors are open for consultation and support. Ojo also issued a stern warning to economic saboteurs, urging them to steer clear of smuggling activities and embrace legitimate trade. He warned that anyone caught engaging in smuggling would face the full wrath of the law.
Ojo commended sister security agencies for their collaboration in the fight against smuggling and other economic sabotage activities. He also expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, for providing the command with essential logistics and welfare support.
