Ogun Command Intercepts 1436 Tyres, 1179kg Illicit Drugs and Others

Joyce Mmereole Okoli

The Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customes Service Idiroko has seized smuggled prohibited goods worth about N242 million between September 18 and September 30, 2023.

Briefing newsmen in Abeokuta, Ogun State on Friday, Acting Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr Adewale Adeniyi said the seized items included 1,436 used pneumatic tyres, 53 sacks, and 569 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, weighing a total of 1,179 kilograms, 3,149 bags of foreign parboiled rice, each weighing 50 kilograms, alongside 32 vehicles used for conveyance, among other items.

“The seizures’ Duty Paid Value (DPV) amounted to an impressive N241,977,943,” Adeniyi said.

The Customs boss said that the seizures were executed at various locations, including Papa/Ajegunle, Ilaro road, Imasayi/Joga road, Ijebu Ode axis, and Odogbolu bush path along Ijebu Ode road in Ogun State.

“We have to again address a pressing concern – the importation of foreign-used pneumatic tyres, more commonly known as tokunbo tyres. These are ring-shaped protective coverings made of rubber and filled with compressed air, typically used in foreign countries. Regrettably, they are deemed unsuitable for our highways. A significant number of these tyres have exceeded their recommended lifespan from their manufacturing date.

“According to safety experts, good-quality pneumatic tyres are safe for use for only four years from the date of manufacturing. Any usage beyond this duration poses a significant risk to motorists and jeopardizes their lives.”

In August, the Ag CG of Customs drew attention to the grave issue of Indian Hemp.

“This psychoactive drug is derived from the cannabis plant and has seen a concerning rise in abuse within Nigerian society, especially among our youth.

“We highlighted the ingenious tactics employed by those engaged in this nefarious trade, including smuggling through land borders, utilizing creeks, and even resorting to smuggling via air routes. We reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to protecting society from the entry of harmful substances and ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians,” he said.

Adeniyi reiterated that these seizures are a testament to the Service’s “renewed determination and strategic deployment of both human and material resources.”

“Our commitment to protecting Nigerians from the audacious actions of daredevil smugglers remains unwavering. We reaffirm our dedication to our duty and pledge to ensure all Nigerians’ safety and well-being.

We are resolute in our mission to curb illicit trade, safeguard our roads from dangerous tyres, and protect our youth from the devastating effects of illicit drugs. Your support and understanding are invaluable as we work together to build a safer and stronger Nigeria,” he said.