Customs Intercepts Smuggled Petrol, Sells To Oyo Residents At ₦630 per Litre.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has sold approximately 20,000 litres of seized petrol to residents of Ibadan, Oyo State, at ₦630 per litre. The sale, conducted on Saturday at Afoo Filling Station in the Masfala area, was part of efforts to deter smuggling and make fuel accessible to the public during the festive season.
The petrol, intercepted by operatives of Operation Whirlwind in the Oyo/Osun axis, included a tanker and 30 kegs containing 25 litres each. Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu, the national coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, revealed that the total duty-paid value of the seized fuel amounted to ₦42.75 million.
Following a court order secured by the Customs Legal Adviser, the NCS decided to auction the fuel to the public. Comptroller Ejibunu explained that the directive came from the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, who emphasised the importance of ensuring citizens benefit from seized goods.
Ejibunu stated, “Government policies are designed to ensure citizens receive what they are entitled to. This sale is a practical step to make seized resources available to Nigerians, particularly at a time of high demand.”
He also reiterated the Customs Service’s commitment to prosecuting offenders and urged citizens to report economic sabotage activities.
Dr Ben Oramalugo, the Area Controller for Oyo/Osun Command, reaffirmed the NCS’s dedication to reducing smuggling. He highlighted the partnership between the Oyo/Osun Area Command and Operation Whirlwind in safeguarding the economy and ensuring national security.
He said, “Our collaboration demonstrates our resolve to combat smuggling and support the economy. This operation is a step towards achieving that goal.”
The managing director of Afoo Filling Station, Alhaji Afolabi Olatunji, praised the smooth execution of the sale, noting that the event was well-organised and devoid of any disruptions.
Alhaji Bashir Adesina, a car dealer and resident, lauded the Customs Service for its proactive approach. He remarked, “This initiative is commendable. It shows that smuggling will not go unchecked and that seized goods can benefit the public.”
Comptroller Ejibunu also recalled a similar operation two months ago in Yola, Adamawa State, where seized petrol was sold to the public. He added that the suspect apprehended in connection with the recent seizure is already facing prosecution.
The sale of seized petrol to the public not only discourages smuggling but also provides relief to citizens, ensuring resources are utilised for the nation’s benefit.
