Roland Iwuchukwu
Following the recent seizure of petroleum products by operatives of Operation Whirlwind in the Adamawa-Taraba region, Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has authorised the sale of the seized PMS to Yola residents in Adamawa State at a subsidised rate, with proceeds remitted to the Federation Account.
The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Comptroller Hussain Ejibunu, praised CGC Adeniyi and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu for their support. He clarified that the initiative alleviate the impact of subsidy removal in the State.
Ejibunu explained that the seized products, intended for illegal export, were confiscated through intelligence and surveillance operations, significantly easing fuel scarcity in the region. The total seizure included 1,124 jerrycans (25, 40, and 60 litres), 53 drums (200 litres each), and 21,000 litres transported in two tankers, amounting to 71,965 litres, valued at over ₦81.5 million.
He also revealed that most of the seizures occurred along the Cameroon-Nigeria border. In a collaborative effort, the Service transferred 13 of the 14 intercepted tankers to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) in Yola.
Ejibunu confirmed that a suspect linked to smuggling activities had been arrested and is currently facing prosecution. He further noted that Operation Whirlwind had helped stabilise the fuel supply in Adamawa State, reducing scarcity and price volatility. The operation’s broader strategy aims to ‘’curb the activities of illegal oil bunkerers and marketers.’’
He urged legitimate oil marketers to continue their businesses without fear of harassment, appreciating their contributions in the fight against smuggling.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) Adamawa/Taraba Command Comptroller Garba Bashir stressed the need for collaboration among all stakeholders, stating, “This fight requires collective responsibility.” He called on the press, stakeholders, and Nigerians to share intelligence to combat smuggling and boost economic growth.
Humuri Timothy, representative of NMDPRA in Adamawa, commended the Customs Service for its efforts to tackle fuel smuggling across Nigeria’s borders.