2027: Customs pledges to combat illegal importation of arms, ammunition

Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has promised to combat illegal importation of arms and ammunition ahead of 2027 general elections in Ogun State.

Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Ogun 1 Area Command made the pledge during a courtesy visit to Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, the Onilaro of Ilaro land, in Ogun State.

The visit centered on the critical implementation of pre-election measures designed to eliminate the movement of dangerous goods, including small arms, light weapons and illicit narcotics through the land borders of Ogun State.

Addressing the monarch, Afeni emphasized that the proximity of Yewaland to the international frontiers makes the community a vital partner in national security.

“Our borders must not become gateways for elements seeking to destabilize our democratic process.

“As we approach the elections, the Nigeria Customs Service is intensifying its Zero Tolerance policy on the smuggling of dangerous goods.

“We are here to seek the royal blessing and the cooperation of the community to ensure that our land borders remain hostile to smugglers and traffickers,” he said.

Afeni outlined several proactive steps being taken by the command to secure the border corridors.

“This includes establishing direct communication channels between border community leaders, increased visibility and 24-hour surveillance of known smugglers’ routes and unapproved crossings.

“Finally rigorous inspection of transit goods to prevent the concealment of lethal items,” he said.

Responding, the monarch, Olugbenle commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its proactive stance.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Yewa people to maintaining peace and order, noting that security is a collective responsibility.

“The throne will continue to sensitize our youths and residents against aiding or abetting any form of illegal trade

“We want an election that is free of violence, and that starts with ensuring that weapons do not find their way into the hands of unscrupulous individuals,” he said.

Area Controller Customs Area Controller also paid a Strategic Border tour to Onihumbe of Ohunbe, Olu of Owode and Obele Frontier.

The Controller’s first stop was the palace of the Onihumbe of Ohumbe, Oba Adekola Oje Oladokun followed by a visit to the Olu of Owode Oba Mathew Akindele

During these audiences, the Controller emphasized that national security is a collective responsibility.

He and thanked the monarchs for their continued role in maintaining peace and urged them to sensitize their subjects particularly the youth against the dangers of smuggling.

“We are not here to hinder trade, but to facilitate legitimate trade. However, the law remains the law.

‘By working closely with the Onihumbe, the Olu of Owode, and the people of Obele border town, we can create a corridor that is hostile to smugglers but welcoming to honest businessmen,” he said.