The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) intercepted 26,950 litres of petroleum products valued at N19 million in Lagos and Ogun States. These products were being smuggled out of Nigeria to Benin Republic. This was disclosed by the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind of the NCS, Controller Kehinde Ejibunu, in Abeokuta on Thursday. The seized petroleum consisted of 978 kegs, each containing 25 litres, and was confiscated within two weeks in Zone A of the NCS, which includes Lagos and Ogun states.
Controller Ejibunu highlighted that smuggling activities contribute to the artificial scarcity of petroleum products in Nigeria. This scarcity often results in significant price hikes, with costs reaching up to N900 per litre. The NCS’s efforts aim to curb smuggling and ensure the availability and affordability of petroleum products in the country.
The interception is part of broader efforts by the NCS to combat smuggling and its adverse effects on the economy and local supply of essential goods. By preventing the illegal export of petroleum products, the NCS seeks to stabilize domestic markets and protect national resources.
Source: Punch