Customs intercepts, auctions 43,750 litres of smuggled petrol in Kwara

By Ahmed Olayinka

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its clampdown on fuel smuggling along the North Central corridor, auctioning 43,750 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) intercepted across the Niger–Kwara axis.

The operation, carried out under Operation Whirlwind, was disclosed during a public auction held in Ilorin on Wednesday. The National Coordinator of the operation, Deputy Comptroller Abubakar Aliyu, said the seizure followed actionable intelligence targeting illegal petroleum distribution networks.

Aliyu revealed that a total of 1,510 jerrycans of 25 litres each and 30 drums of 200 litres were recovered, amounting to 43,750 litres, with an estimated duty-paid value of ₦43.75 million.

He explained that the products were intercepted at several identified smuggling hotspots, including Kaiama, Shiya, Kenu, Boriya, Luma, Bokuru-Baruten, Ilesha-Baruba, Taberu, and Salla-Gwanara.

According to him, the operation underscores the determination of security agencies to safeguard Nigeria’s economic interests and prevent the diversion of petroleum products meant for local consumption.

“Fuel smuggling is a serious economic crime. It deprives the country of revenue, disrupts supply, and contributes to scarcity and inflated prices, placing unnecessary strain on citizens,” he said.

Aliyu added that such illicit activities also strengthen criminal networks and pose risks to national security, stressing that Operation Whirlwind remains committed to dismantling these syndicates.

He commended the Office of the National Security Adviser, led by Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for providing strategic guidance and intelligence support, as well as the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority for its technical contributions.

The Customs boss also acknowledged the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for supporting the operation.

Issuing a warning to smugglers, Aliyu declared that security agencies would no longer tolerate illegal dealings in petroleum products.

“The era of impunity is over. We will continue to track, apprehend, and dismantle smuggling networks wherever they operate,” he said.

He urged residents, particularly those in border communities, to support enforcement efforts by providing timely and credible information, noting that public cooperation remains vital in tackling smuggling.

Aliyu further stated that the public auction of the seized fuel reflects the agency’s commitment to transparency and accountability in handling confiscated items.

In his remarks, the Acting Customs Area Controller for Kwara Command, Deputy Comptroller Najeem Ogundeyi, attributed recent operational successes to improved collaboration and intelligence sharing among security agencies.

He called for sustained cooperation among stakeholders to protect the nation’s economy and ensure compliance with existing regulations.

The NCS reiterated its resolve to strengthen surveillance and enforcement across border regions as part of ongoing efforts to curb fuel smuggling and protect Nigeria’s strategic resources.