Customs Seizes 28,300 Litres of Petrol, Highlights Ogun’s Role in Fuel Smuggling
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the seizure of 28,300 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, by its Zone A Command.
Comptroller General of the Service, Adewale Adeniyi, revealed the interception on Monday at the Customs Training College in Ikeja, Lagos, while displaying the seized petrol to the media. Adeniyi also pointed out that Ogun State contributes significantly to fuel smuggling, accounting for 65% of such activities in the South-West Zone, with Lagos State contributing 35%.
According to the Customs CG, a detailed analysis of seizure patterns across the region has provided valuable insights into the smuggling routes and methods being exploited by criminals. He further explained that the Imeko-Afon axis in Ogun State alone is responsible for 25% of the total seizures, while the Ilaro-Ojodan axis accounts for 22%, and the Owode-Ajilete route contributes 18%. Together, these areas account for the 65% of fuel smuggling in the region.
Adeniyi also noted the continuing dominance of the Badagry-Seme corridor, which has long been the primary route for fuel smuggling. This route, which links Nigeria to the Republic of Benin and is surrounded by a network of waterways, remains a favorite for smugglers, contributing 35% of all petrol seizures in the zone.
“These corridors represent the evolving tactics of smugglers, who are attempting to bypass traditional enforcement points,” Adeniyi remarked, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and adaptation of enforcement strategies.
The seized petrol was intercepted during an intelligence-driven operation conducted between January 11 and February 23, 2025, by Customs officers. The operation led to the confiscation of 28,300 litres of petrol being transported using various concealment techniques. The duty-paid value of these seizures was estimated at N35.8 million.
In addition to the petrol, three vehicles used for smuggling were also seized as part of the operation.
