Ogun I Customs Debunks Smuggling Roadblock Claim
The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has refuted reports alleging that smugglers barricaded the Idiroko–Sango Ota Road in Ogun State, describing the claims as misleading and a distortion of a traffic incident caused by a road accident.
According to information available to our correspondent, the traffic gridlock occurred after a commercial trailer broke down when it fell into a badly damaged section of Atan Road, temporarily obstructing the free flow of traffic.
The Command clarified that the trucks caught in the congestion were legitimate commercial vehicles transporting red palm oil to local markets and had no link to smuggling activities.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Zakari Chado, the Service explained that the large number of heavy-duty trucks stranded in the traffic led to the false impression that smugglers had taken over the route.
“The reports claiming smugglers blocked the road are false. The traffic disruption resulted from a road accident caused by poor road conditions. The vehicles involved were lawfully conveying red palm oil for legitimate commercial purposes,” Chado said.
The Command urged journalists, social media users, and the general public to verify information before sharing reports capable of causing unnecessary alarm or eroding public confidence in security agencies.
Observers noted that the allegation contradicts the current security situation within the Ogun I Area Command, which has intensified anti-smuggling operations under the leadership of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Oladapo Afeni.
Since assuming office, Comptroller Afeni has strengthened intelligence-driven operations, enhanced collaboration with sister security agencies and host communities, and sustained pressure on smugglers along the Ogun border. These efforts have resulted in significant seizures of prohibited goods and reinforced the Command’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s economy and territorial integrity.
Stakeholders in the maritime and border trade sector also cautioned against spreading unverified information capable of undermining the achievements of security agencies or creating a false impression of insecurity in border communities.
The Command reaffirmed its resolve to sustain its anti-smuggling operations while continuing to facilitate legitimate trade in line with the statutory mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service.
