Customs Auctions N94.4m Petroleum Product to Oyo Residents

Nigeria Customs Service Auctions ₦94.4 Million Worth of Petroleum Products to Oyo Residents

In a decisive move to curb fuel smuggling and reinforce national resource protection, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), through its Operation Whirlwind task force, has commenced the subsidized sale of confiscated petroleum products valued at ₦94.4 million.

This initiative, unveiled during a press briefing in Ibadan, Oyo State, marks a significant stride in the federal government's campaign against economic sabotage and illegal exportation of fuel.

Assistant Comptroller-General Kola Oladiji, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, disclosed that the auction followed the interception of 14,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) worth ₦14 million.

The product was concealed in a tanker truck with registration number DGB 722 XR and seized along the Igbeti–Ogbomoso Road en route to the Republic of Benin. The operation was executed based on credible intelligence and swift field response, underscoring the task force’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

The seized PMS was sold to the public at a subsidized rate of ₦600 per litre at a designated filling station in Ibadan, allowing local communities to benefit directly from the recovered resources. ACG Oladiji emphasized that the auction was conducted in strict adherence to customs regulations and aimed at ensuring domestic fuel availability while deterring unpatriotic profiteering.

In a related operation within the Lagos–Ogun border axis, Operation Whirlwind intercepted 1,980 jerrycans containing 49,500 litres of PMS, valued at ₦80.4 million. These seizures occurred at notorious smuggling flashpoints including Ajilete, Ijoun, Ilaro, Badagry, Owode-Idiroko, and Imeko.

The Lagos operation also led to the sealing of Adeola-Ade PLC, a filling station found to be in violation of petroleum handling and storage protocols.

A suspect apprehended during the follow-up investigation was released on administrative bail after fulfilling legal requirements.

ACG Oladiji reiterated the task force’s dedication to due process and the welfare of Nigerians, lauding the strategic support from the Office of the National Security Adviser under Malam Nuhu Ribadu and the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi. He affirmed that Operation Whirlwind would continue to collaborate with sister security agencies and regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to enhance monitoring and compliance.

Calling for public support, Oladiji urged citizens to contribute credible intelligence to aid the fight against fuel diversion and smuggling. He concluded by stressing that safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests is a collective responsibility, and the Customs Service remains resolute in dismantling networks that threaten national stability.