Urgent: 1,577 Smuggled Petrol Jerry Cans Seized by Customs

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), via its Operations Whirlwind Unit, has confiscated 1,577 jerry cans containing smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), often referred to as petrol, valued at approximately ₦39.4 million.

During a press briefing in Lagos on Friday, Mr. Hussaine Ejibunu, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs and National Coordinator of the Unit, who stood in for the Comptroller General of Customs, revealed that the confiscation occurred at several key border locations, such as Ilaro, Imeko, Badagry, Owode, and Ajilete.

He indicated that inquiries revealed the fuel was destined for illicit export to neighboring nations.

Furthermore, Ejibunu asserted the Service’s dedication to eradicating smuggling, declaring, “Smugglers and those undermining the economy will find no refuge. We are resolute in disrupting their unlawful activities and minimizing their impact.”

He detailed that the total quantity of confiscated PMS amounted to 39,425 liters (with each jerry can holding 25 liters), alongside eight vehicles employed in transporting the illicit fuel.

The estimated duty-paid value of the petrol stands at ₦39.4 million, while the vehicles are appraised at ₦24 million, resulting in a combined value of ₦63.4 million for the confiscated assets.

Ejibunu mentioned that, following the orders of Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi, the impounded fuel will be promptly auctioned off.

He recognized the essential support from various stakeholders involved in the operation.

“We extend our gratitude to our key partners — the Office of the Attorney General and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Lagos Zonal Office — for their steadfast assistance. This achievement would not have been attainable without their collaboration,” he remarked.

In a similar vein, Mr. Patrick Musa, Assistant Director at the Lagos office of NMDPRA, reiterated the agency’s resolve to collaborate with the Customs Service in tackling economic sabotage.

“We will maintain our support for the Customs until these economic disruptors are fully neutralized,” Musa emphasized.