NCS Ogun 1 command makes major drug interception, worth N172.9m, celebrates CG’s new role as WCO Chairperson

Adisa Yusuf

Area Comptroller of Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, has handed over 2,693 parcels of cannabis sativa, weighing 1,450kg and valued at N172,920,000, to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Idiroko Area Command.

The seized contraband was intercepted on June 29, 2025, at Ilaro, Ogun State, concealed in a fabricated compartment of a Mercedes-Benz truck.

The Comptroller noted that the successful interception of the large quantity of illicit drugs with Duty Paid Value (DPV) amounting to N172,920,000 remained a significant step in halting the circulation of harmful substances among the youth and thereby safeguarding national security.

According to him, “As you may recall, we reiterated the Command’s unwavering resolve to continue combating smuggling activities within Ogun State.”

According to the Customs boss, during an intelligence-driven operation, a Mercedes-Benz Truck was intercepted with registration number EPE-595-LA. Along with a suspect, William Asare (M), a 39-year-old Nigerian resident of Mobil, Challenge area, Ibadan, Oyo State. Upon initial examination, the truck was suspected to be conveying prohibited items.

Further inspection revealed that several parcels of Cannabis Sativa, commonly known as marijuana, had been ingeniously concealed within fabricated compartments — also referred to as a false bottom — of the truck.

By Section 226 of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Act, 2023, the truck was immediately moved to the Command’s headquarters in Idiroko for further investigation. A comprehensive physical examination revealed a total of 2,693 parcels of cannabis sativa weighing 1,450kg. Other enabling provisions of the NCS Act 2023 that guided this operation include Sections 6 and 250. The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seizure amounts to N172,920,000.

The Controller commended Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on his election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization Council—an honor bestowed by 186 member nations.

Compt. Otunla applauded the management team for support on the new delivery of 13 operational vehicles, generously allocated by the CGC to boost the command’s operational capacity. “We are deeply grateful to him and the entire management team for their continued support and encouragement,” he stated.