The Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun Area 1 Command has intercepted 10,126 parcels of Cannabis Indica, popularly known as Ghana Loud, with an estimated value of over N6 billion.
While handing over the exhibits to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, at the Sentry Idiroko Border Post, the Acting Customs Area Comptroller, Olukayode Afeni, said the contraband items were intercepted at different locations across Ogun State.
Afeni disclosed that the seizures underscore the command’s determination to combat smuggling operations, prevent the loss of national revenue through illegal trade, and dismantle organized smuggling networks.
He lamented the devastating effects of illicit drugs on consumers, especially youths, noting that drug abuse often fuels crimes such as armed robbery, banditry, cultism, kidnapping, terrorism, and other social vices.
“We remain resolute in our duty to ensure that Ogun State and the nation at large remain hostile environments for those seeking to undermine our economic stability,” he said.
Afeni added that through enhanced intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration, the command recorded 73 seizures within five weeks, 41 days.
“The cumulative Duty Paid Value, DPV, of the seized items stands at N6,777,236,000. These items were intercepted at different locations within Ogun State through intensive intelligence strategies and the concerted efforts of our personnel.
“From January to date, we have taken 26,002 parcels of cannabis off the streets. This is not just a seizure; it is a preventive measure. Without this intervention, society could face a wave of drug-related crises capable of overwhelming our already overstretched healthcare and rehabilitation systems.
“Between March 16, 2026, and this morning, May 12, 2026, the command generated and remitted N125,430,757 into the Federation Account through baggage assessment and the auction of seized petroleum products,” he stated.
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The acting comptroller reiterated the command’s commitment to the safety and well-being of residents, while calling for greater public support and cooperation in boosting economic growth and curbing smuggling activities.
He further noted that the latest seizures came 41 days after the command handed over 2,543 parcels of cannabis sativa to the NDLEA Idiroko Special Command.
Other items seized include 26 sacks of raw cannabis sativa, 50 cartons of expired Maggi Star seasoning, 1,759 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, 2,685 kegs of 25 litres and 16 kegs of two litres of vegetable oil, as well as 16 kegs containing 14,550 litres of Premium Motor Spirit stored in jerrycans.
Also seized were 77 cartons of 500mg Analgin injections without NAFDAC registration numbers, 216 cartons of 20kg Basmati rice, 205 packs of footwear, 66 bales of second-hand clothing, 46 bags of 25kg foreign sugar, two used vehicles, two sacks of ladies’ handbags, 16 cartons of organic honey, 858 packs of macaroni, two sacks of spaghetti, and six live pangolins, which have since been handed over to the appropriate agency.
The Commander of the Idiroko Special Command of the NDLEA, Ekundayo Williams commended the collaborative efforts of sister agencies and critical stakeholders in the fight against smugglers and economic saboteurs.
THE GUARDIAN NEWS
