By Okey IROEGBU
Comptroller James Ojo, Customs Area Controller of Ogun 1 Command with his officers and men have through concerted efforts, strategic operations and diligence, generated an impressive revenue of N92,369,227.00 for the second quarter of 2024. This revenue according to the Area Controller represents about 52.46% increase compared to the N53,983,622.00 recorded in the corresponding period of 2023. In addition, the Command surpassed the monthly revenue target of N34,122,666.90 in June 2024 by 77.86%. “This achievement is a testament to the diligence, commitment, and professionalism of our officers and men who have worked tirelessly to ensure that we meet and exceed our revenue targets. It is also indicative of our unwavering commitment to the economic growth and development of our dear nation,” the Area Controller asserted. Speaking with newsmen at Abeokuta recently, the Area Controller, stated that this success, aligns perfectly with the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi who has championed the principles of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation. “His visionary leadership and enabling support have been crucial in enhancing our capabilities and driving these impressive results,” he stated. On anti-smuggling, Comptroller Ojo said prohibited goods intercepted during recent operations include: 219 sacks and 1,725 parcels of cannabis sativa (marijuana); 940 rounds of live ammunition; 44,466 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS); 2,227 pieces of pneumatic foreign-used tyres (Tokunbo tyres); 64 bales and 222 sacks of used clothes; 2,947 cartons of frozen poultry products; 7,015 bags of foreign parboiled rice; 21 units of vehicles and 3 units of motorcycles; 115 pairs of used shoes. All these are with Street and Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N770,666,237.00. These seizures are not just numbers; they represent the Command’s relentless fight against smuggling and its determination to protect the local economy, ensure public health and safety, and uphold the integrity of our borders. “Recall that during my maiden press briefing held on 9 May 2024, I highlighted the adverse effects of smuggled cannabis sativa and foreign-used 
pneumatic tires on the citizenry, and these include the following: "Cannabis sativa, commonly known as marijuana or Indian hemp, is a psychoactive drug derived from the cannabis plant. It has a devastating effect on the lives of its consumers, especially our youths. The rise in its abuse is of great concern within Nigerian society and a threat to our national security, due to its potential influence on criminal activities, such as armed robbery, banditry, cultism, kidnapping, terrorism, and other criminal activities. "Foreign-used Pneumatic Tires, more commonly known as Tokunbo tires, are ring-shaped protective coverings made of rubber and filled with compressed air, typically used in foreign countries and shipped into the country after use overseas. These tires are deemed unsuitable for our highways because a significant number of them have exceeded their recommended lifespan from their manufacturing dates. According to safety experts, good-quality pneumatic tires are safe for use for only four years from the date of manufacturing. Any usage beyond this duration poses a significant risk to motorists and puts their lives in jeopardy. “In addition to the above highlights, it is pertinent to also state the health implications of consuming smuggled frozen poultry products. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the health implications of consuming frozen poultry products preserved with chemicals and smuggled into Nigeria from the Republic of Benin can be severe and multifaceted. Here are some potential health risks: "Chemical Contamination. Smuggled poultry often lacks proper regulatory oversight, increasing the risk of harmful chemicals being used for preservation. These chemicals, which can include formaldehyde and other preservatives, can be toxic if ingested, potentially causing acute and chronic health issues, including poisoning, cancer, and organ damage. "Foodborne Illnesses. The lack of proper hygiene and temperature control during smuggling can lead to the proliferation of harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. Consuming contaminated poultry can cause foodborne illnesses, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, hospitalization or even death. "Antibiotic Resistance. Poultry smuggled from regions with poor regulatory controls may have been treated with antibiotics not approved for use in food animals. This can contribute to the development and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a significant public health threat as infections become harder to treat. "Nutritional Deficiencies. Smuggled poultry products may not meet the nutritional standards required for healthy consumption. Poor handling and preservation techniques can degrade the nutritional quality of the meat, leading to potential deficiencies when consumed regularly. "Allergic Reactions. The use of
The visit to Alaka of Egbaland
unknown or banned chemicals in preserving smuggled poultry can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Symptoms can range from mild skin irritations to severe anaphylactic reactions, which require immediate medical attention. Comptroller Ojo reiterated that the consumption of unsafe, smuggled poultry products, can strain public health systems due to increased incidences of foodborne illnesses and other health complications. This can lead to higher healthcare costs and resource allocation challenges. Meanwhile in a release made available to this media by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Hammed Bukoye Oloyede confirms a recent visit by the Customs Area Controller of the Command to the Reverred Traditional Ruler of Igbaland His Royal Majesty Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo CFR. The strategic visit is aimed at fostering sustainable collaboration to enhance economic growth and security along Nigeria’s borders with the Republic of Benin through intelligence sharing and collaborative anti-smuggling operations. "Comptroller Ojo highlighted the importance of leveraging the traditional institutions’ influence and insights to enhance border security and combat smuggling activities effectively. “His visit also included fruitful discussions with sister security agencies in Ogun State.These
CSC Oloyede, Command’s PRO
engagements underscored the need for continuous and robust collaboration among security agencies to address the challenges posed by smuggling and other cross-border crimes. By sharing intelligence, resources, and expertise, the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies can create a formidable front against those who seek to undermine Nigeria’s economic stability and national security,” the release stated.
No comments:
Post a Comment