Oyo/Osun customs seize illegal items, generate N15.7bn

The Oyo/Osun Customs Area Command has declared generation of the sum of N15.7bn for the months of October and November 2024.

Cumulatively, when added to the revenue generated for January to November 2024, the sum of N72bn has been generated as revenue.

This represents a 33.6 per cent increase when compared to the sum of N11bn generated during the same period of the year 2023.

The Command also seized 110 (50kg) Bags of Foreign Parboiled Rice, with duty paid value of 9,680,000, 4,000 packs of Foreign Macaroni, 9,425 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 111 bales of Second-Hand Clothing, 348 pieces of Used Tyres, 50 cartons of Pharmaceuticals (Chloroquine), and 1 DAF Truck, 1 Canter.

Speaking on the efforts made, the Oyo/Osun Customs Area Controller, Dr. Ben Oramalugo, described the increase as a testament to the hard work and commitment of officers in ensuring compliance with customs laws and maximising revenue for the government.

He added that the dangers posed by these smuggling activities cannot be overstated, as they not only compromise public health but also stifle the growth of local industries and deprive the government of much needed revenue for infrastructure and development projects.

Dr Oramalugo noted that these seizures were carried out in strict adherence to the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023 and the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET). The legal provisions enshrined in these books of authority guide our activities, reinforce our mandate to protect national interests, uphold the law, and maintain the integrity of our borders.

“He said: As we approach the festive season I would like urge the general public to keep supporting the Nigeria Customs Service by providing credible intelligence, complying with trade laws and rejecting any form of economic sabotage.

“Furthermore as we conclude this year, I would like to state that the Oyo/Osun Area Command remains committed to upholding the values of transparency, accountability, and excellence in service delivery solely to protect lives, secure local industries and promote a thriving economy because together we will continue to build a more robust and prosperous Nigeria.