The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Area Command, Idiroko, has promised to frustrate illegal entry of contraband items into the state ahead of the 2027 elections.

The command’s spokesperson, Chado Zakari, in a statement on Thursday in Idiroko, quoted the acting area comptroller, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, as saying this during a courtesy visit to the paramount ruler of Yewaland, Ilaro, Ogun State, Kehinde Olugbenle. 

Mr Afeni said that the visit centred 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 Ogun State land borders.

The comptroller said that the proximity of Yewaland to the international frontier made the community a vital partner in national security. ​

“Our borders must not become gateways for elements seeking to destabilise our democratic process. As we approach the elections, the NCS is intensifying its zero tolerance policy on the smuggling of dangerous goods.

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

During the visit, the area comptroller outlined several proactive steps being taken by the command to secure the border corridors and establish direct communication channels between border community leaders.

He added that other measures included increased visibility and 24-hour surveillance of known smugglers’ routes and unapproved crossings as well as rigorous inspection of transit goods to prevent the concealment of lethal weapons.

In his response, Mr Olugbenle commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its proactive stance.

The royal father reaffirmed the commitment of the Yewa people to maintaining peace and order, adding, “Security is a collective responsibility. The throne will continue to sensitise our youths and residents against aiding or abetting any form of illegal trade.

”Also, 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.”

The comptroller also paid courtesy visits to the Onihumbe of Ohumbe, Adekola Oje Oladokun, and the Olu of Owode, Mathew Akindele.

Mr Afeni said that national security was a collective responsibility and thanked the royal fathers for their continued role in maintaining peace.

He urged them to sensitise their subjects, particularly the youth, to the dangers of smuggling.

Mr Afeni said that by working closely with the Onihumbe, the Olu of Owode and the people of Obele border town, the service could create a corridor that was hostile to smugglers but welcoming to honest businessmen. 

(NAN)