The management of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has promised to combat illegal importation of arms and ammunition ahead of 2027 general elections in Ogun State. The Acting Comptroller, Ogun 1 Area Command, Mr. Oladapo Afeni, made the pledge during a courtesy visit to Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle on the activities of his command.
According to the service, 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 the state.
Addressing the monarch, Afeni emphasised 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 destabilise 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.
Addressing his host, Mr. 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, Oba Olugbenle commended the service for its proactive stance just as he also reaffirmed the commitment of the Yewa people to maintaining peace and order, noting that security is a collective responsibility.
“The throne will continue to sensitise 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.
The customs boss also paid a Strategic Border tour to Onihumbe of Ohunbe, Olu of Owode and Obele Frontier with his first stop being 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 emphasised that national security is a collective responsibility.
He and thanked the monarchs for their continued role in maintaining peace and urged them to sensitise their subjects particularly the youth against the dangers of smuggling.
