COMPT OTUNLA RATTLES SMUGGLERS; INTERCEPTS N344.8 MILLION CONTRABAND IN SIX WEEKS
By Timothy Paul Okorocha
Several smugglers around the Ogun 1 axis of the Idiroko border corridor are currently being rattled having been inflicted huge losses due to the new strategies introduced by the Comptroller Otunla administration since assumption of office on April 24th this year.
The economic loss has resulted in the interception of more than N344.8 million prohibited items, including arms and ammunition as well as drugs.
In his maiden briefing at the command, the Area controller gave credence to the collaborative synergy amongst security agencies at his jurisdiction, in addition to the provision of adequate logistics by the Comptroller General of the service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.
.ANTI-SMUGGLING ACHIEVEMENTS
He stated that since assuming leadership of Ogun I Command, they intensified surveillance, deployed strategic intelligence, and strengthened collaboration with security agencies and community stakeholders to enhance border operations. These deliberate efforts have yielded remarkable results. Between 24 April 2025 and today, their operatives successfully intercepted and seized large quantities of prohibited items including:
a. Coconut-size Cannabis Sativa – 1,037 parcels.
b. Dane Guns – 2 units.
c. Live Cartridges – 88 rounds.
d. Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) – 13,125 litres.
e. Foreign Parboiled Rice of 50kg each – 2,627 bags which is more than 4 trailer loads.
f. Foreign-Used Vehicles – 4 units.
g. Means of Conveyance Vehicles – 7 units.
h. Used Pneumatic Tyres – 29 bundles.
The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of these seizures stands at ₦344,853,244 — a clear testament to their zero-tolerance stance against smuggling and economic sabotage. The seized items were intercepted in different locations within Ogun State, including Lusada/Ado-Odo axis, Abule Kazeem/Igbo-Ora road, Abeokuta axis, Imeko axis, Idiroko/Owode axis, and Ipokia axis among others. For emphasis, the seizures of Cannabis Sativa and Arms and Ammunition are particularly worrisome, given their far-reaching impact on our youth, public health, and national security.
According to him, today’s briefing highlights their progress and key achievements in border security and anti-smuggling efforts through strategic enforcement and collaboration with relevant security agencies. It is also an opportunity to reaffirm the NCS’s strong commitment to safeguarding national security, promoting economic stability, and protecting the health of citizens. These achievements are made possible under the visionary leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and the consistent support of his management team.
REVENUE GENERATION
Prior to my assumption of duty in April 2025, the sum of ₦10,621,250 was generated as revenue for the Command. However, through renewed commitment and strategic realignment, the figure was increased significantly to ₦42,279,240.00 by ending of May 2025. This improvement reflects the deliberate efforts to block revenue leakages, ensure compliance, and foster legitimate trade across our borders.
STAKEHOLDERS ENGAGEMENT: In line with inter-agency synergy and national protocol, we shall, in the course of this briefing, formally hand over the seized Cannabis Sativa to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Idiroko Special Command. We shall also hand over the seized arms and ammunition, and explosive material to the Nigerian Police Force, Ogun State Command for further necessary actions.
The details of all the items to be handed over include:
a. Single Barrel Dane Guns – 5 Units.
b. Live Cartridges – 1,433 Rounds.
c. 16×4.8cm Best Fireworks Indoor – 18 Pieces.
d. 12×3.8cm Best Fireworks Indoor – 30 Pieces.
e. Cannabis Sativa – 1,037 Parcels.
APPRECIATION AND COMMENDATION: He said, ‘Permit me to use this opportunity to express my profound appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, for his dynamic leadership, unflinching support, and consistent encouragement. His administration has redefined operational effectiveness and motivated a culture of excellence across Commands nationwide’.
He also extends sincere commendation to the gallant officers and men of Ogun I Area Command whose relentless efforts, despite daunting challenges, have made these successes possible. Their dedication is not only commendable but patriotic. He specifically recognizes and appreciates the Customs Intelligent Unit (CIU), Customs Police Unit (CPU), Acting Deputy Comptroller Revenue, Valuation Unit, and Technical Supervisor (TS) for their concerted efforts towards our achievements.
Furthermore, the Compt acknowledged the collaborative efforts of their sister agencies, traditional institutions, local informants, community leaders, and the youth whose support continues to enhance their operational efficiency. Security is a collective responsibility, and they do not take these partnerships for granted. He also implore them to give a minute silence in honour of the departed king of the host community, late Oba john Olakunle Ojo (JP), Oniko of Ikolaje-Idiroko kingdom, may his soul rest in perfect peace. His reign contributed immensely to the peaceful co-existence we are enjoying in Idiroko and its environs. On a final note, it is my pleasure to commend the media for their objectivity and patriotism reflected in their reportage.
CONCLUSION: In conclusion, he reaffirmed their unwavering resolve to sustain this momentum. Smugglers and their collaborators are hereby warned to steer clear of Ogun I Command. He said they remain vigilant, alert, and ready to confront any threat to the economic and security interests of our nation. The NCS under his leadership at Ogun I Command will continue to act with integrity, courage, and professionalism — guided by their mandate and committed to national development.