Customs impounds 22,600 litres of petrol, 2,922 bags of rice in Ogun

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Command, has impounded 22,600 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, aka petrol, amid a biting fuel crisis in the country especially the border areas.

The command also seized 90 sacks and 1,309 parcels of cannabis sativa, 1,596 pieces of foreign-used pneumatic tyres, 2,922 bags of foreign parboiled rice weighing 50kg each, 32 bales of used clothes and 1,603 cartons of frozen poultry products.

Speaking with newsmen, the Area Comptroller, Comptroller James Ojo, said the contraband with Duty Paid Value worth N380,370,911, was intercepted within 23 days of assumption of office at the command.

Ojo also disclosed that the Command also generated revenue amounting to N14,628,661 through baggage assessment and auction sales of petroleum products.

He reiterated the government’s policy on the prohibition of rice importation through land borders, emphasizing the need to promote local production and self-sufficiency to foster economic growth and development.

“Rice is a staple food eaten in many homes in the country. Its importation through the land borders was prohibited by the Federal Government of Nigerian (FGN) to encourage local production and be self-sufficient, as Nigeria is blessed with vast and fertile lands.”

“This policy of the FGN may be perceived as difficult and unfriendly, but has a long-term great benefit when embraced. For instance, the much-appreciated foreign rice is a local produce in the countries of exportation, and these countries commenced their production with insignificant quantities before getting to their present commercial status.

“ In a nutshell, the persistent smuggling of rice will continue to hamper our economic growth and development as a nation. We will overcome the economic situation in the country by God’s grace,” Ojo said.