The House of Representatives of Nigeria has commenced an investigation into allegations of smuggling and misconduct involving personnel of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
This decision followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance during Wednesday’s plenary, sponsored by Oluwaseun Whingan, representing the Badagry Federal Constituency of Lagos State.
Citing a report published by Sahara Reporters on November 18, 2024, Whingan disclosed that over 2,000 vehicles carrying approximately 6,500,000 kilograms of rice were smuggled through Badagry, allegedly under the watch of customs officers. The claims were further substantiated by investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, whose video evidence purportedly highlighted customs officers’ complicity in the illegal trade.
Whingan also raised concerns about reported cases of brutality, including an incident along the Badagry-Seme Expressway on December 1, where customs officers, alongside soldiers, allegedly assaulted two transporters suspected of documenting smuggling activities. This altercation reportedly escalated into a standoff, requiring police intervention.
Highlighting the broader implications, Whingan warned that unchecked smuggling undermines local industries, reduces government revenue, and floods markets with substandard products, harming the nation’s economy. He noted that these actions contradict the NCS’s core mandate, eroding public trust in the agency.
In response, the House mandated its Committees on Customs and Excise and Defence to investigate the operations of the NCS, particularly regarding smuggling activities, allegations of complicity, and incidents of brutality. The committees are expected to submit a report within six weeks, recommending measures to improve accountability and operational efficiency.
The lawmakers also resolved to examine the role of military personnel attached to customs operations to ensure compliance with legal frameworks and human rights standards, safeguarding Nigeria’s economic and national security interests.
