The comptroller-general of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adeniyi, said Operation Whirlwind intercepted 39,425 litres of petrol worth N39.4 million within Lagos-Ogun axis.

Mr Adeniyi disclosed this on Friday at a news conference in Lagos organised following recent petroleum product seizures by Operation Whirlwind at the Federal Operations Unit, Ikeja.

Represented by the national coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, asst. comptroller-general Hussein Ejibunu, Mr Adeniyi said it marked another milestone by operatives in the Lagos-Ogun axis.

He attributed the success to officers’ dedication, commitment and resilience over the past year within the zone.

Mr Adeniyi said the office of the National Security Adviser, NMDPRA, and attorney general’s office all commended customs’ efforts in intercepting smuggled petroleum products.

He said, “On May 23, we were in Yola for a similar exercise where over 46,000 litres of seized PMS were auctioned. 

“Today, we are conducting another auction following seizures made at Laro, Imeko, Badagry, Owode, Ajilete, and other flashpoints.”

He added that investigations confirmed the petrol was intended for smuggling into Benin Republic.

A total of 1,577 jerrycans of 25 litres each — amounting to 39,425 litres — were seized, along with eight vehicles used for transportation.

Mr Adeniyi stated that the seized petrol had a duty paid value of N39.4 million, and the vehicles were valued at N24 million, totalling N63.4 million.

He reiterated that there was no safe haven for smugglers, and customs would continue disrupting illegal activities to the barest minimum.

The CGC directed that the seized petrol be auctioned immediately to Nigerians in 25-litre jerry cans at N10,000 each. 

He thanked strategic partners—ONSA, the attorney general’s office and NMDPRA—for their unwavering support and cooperation.

Mr Adeniyi added that the success of Operation Whirlwind was due to strong collaboration with these agencies.

“Since Operation Whirlwind began in 2025, Customs officers have not fired a single shot, and four suspects are currently facing trial,” he said.

Comptroller Charles Orbih, zonal coordinator, Zone ‘A’ of NCS, reaffirmed the service’s commitment to protect Nigeria’s economy and ensure policy benefits reach all citizens.

He noted that every litre smuggled across the borders causes revenue loss, scarcity, market instability and weakens energy security.

“Operation Whirlwind, launched by the National Security Adviser’s office, proves Nigeria Customs is capable of defending and securing the nation’s borders,” Mr Orbih stated.

Comptroller Muhammed Shuaibu, FOU Zone ‘A’, commended customs management for the success achieved during Operation Whirlwind.

He said the seizure was a joint effort by officers committed to combating smuggling and protecting the nation’s borders.

He added that the seizure would help revive the economy, and customs would maintain its focus on revenue generation and supporting legitimate trade.

Patrick Musa, of the NSA’s Lagos zonal office (NMDPRA), said the operation proved customs’ competence in border protection.

He noted that NMDPRA, mandated with petroleum distribution, would continue collaborating with customs and other agencies to stop petrol smuggling.

Abidemi Aluko, representing the attorney general’s office, appreciated the CGC, customs officers and partner agencies for curbing petrol smuggling.

“This is not business as usual. Suspects are currently under investigation for illegal petroleum dealings and will face trial,” she said.

Quoting relevant laws, she stated the offence carries a sentence of life imprisonment or a fine, including forfeiture of transport means.

“The federal government remains committed to prosecuting and bringing to justice those involved in petrol smuggling,” Ms Aluko added.

She called on sister agencies and stakeholders to strengthen collaboration to fight economic sabotage.

In his closing remarks, ACG Kola Oladeji thanked the CGC for his leadership and enabling environment that contributed to the operation’s success.

Mr Oladeji urged officers to stay committed and intensify efforts to enhance national security. 

(NAN)