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Ogun I Customs Hands Over ₦172m Worth of Seized Cannabis to NDLEA

The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has transferred a consignment of intercepted cannabis worth ₦172,920,000 to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, handed over the prohibited substances to the NDLEA during a press briefing at the Command’s headquarters in Idiroko on Thursday, July 3, 2025.

Comptroller Otunla disclosed that the cannabis consignment, concealed in a Mercedes-Benz truck, was intercepted following credible intelligence.

“Upon initial examination, the truck was suspected to be conveying prohibited items. Further inspection revealed several parcels of cannabis sativa, commonly known as marijuana, cleverly hidden in fabricated compartments—also known as a false bottom.

“A thorough search, conducted under Section 226 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act (2023) uncovered 2,693 parcels of the illicit substance, weighing a total of 1,450kg, with a duty-paid value of ₦172,920,000,” he said.

He stated that one suspect was arrested in connection with the seizure and commended the strategic leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

Otunla also congratulated CGC Adeniyi on his recent election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council. “This prestigious global recognition reflects the CGC’s visionary leadership and commitment to service reform and modernisation.”

He added: “I am also pleased to announce that the Command has just taken delivery of 13 operational vehicles allocated by the CGC to enhance our enforcement capabilities. We are deeply grateful to him and the entire management team for their continued support.”

The seized consignment and the suspect were formally handed over to the Commander of the NDLEA Idiroko Special Command, Williams Ekundayo.

On his part, Ekundayo applauded Customs for the successful operation, saying: “This is a commendable seizure that will go a long way in protecting our youths from the devastating effects of drug abuse.”

Hope Ejairu

Hope Ejairu is a writer, sports analyst and journalist, with publications in print and digital media. He holds certifications in various media/journalism trainings, including AFP.

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