Customs Seize N80.4 Million Worth of Petrol Destined for Smuggling to Benin Republic

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully confiscated 1,980 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly referred to as petrol, with an estimated value of N80.4 million. These fuel containers were reportedly destined for illegal smuggling into the Republic of Benin.
The confiscation was carried out by Operation Whirlwind, a dedicated NCS task force, targeting key smuggling hotspots across Lagos and Ogun States over a period of seven weeks.
During a press conference held in Ikeja, Lagos, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs (ACG) and National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Kola Oladeji, emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader crackdown on unlawful exportation of petroleum products and other forms of economic sabotage.
He revealed that the seized fuel was intercepted at several notorious smuggling routes including Ajilete, Ijoun, Haro, Badagry, Owode Idiroko, Eree Ado-Odo, and Obada Imeko.
In addition to the fuel, seven vehicles used for transporting the illicit cargo were also seized.
“Based on reliable intelligence, our operatives intercepted 1,980 jerrycans of PMS, amounting to 49,500 litres, at various smuggling points within Lagos and Ogun States. The combined duty-paid value of the confiscated fuel and vehicles is approximately N80.4 million,” Oladeji stated.
Following the initial seizures, intelligence-driven operations led officers to a retail outlet on Owode-Apa Road in Badagry, where violations related to the storage and handling of petroleum products were uncovered. Consequently, the facility was shut down in line with regulatory standards to prevent further economic harm and protect public safety.
During a security sweep around the sealed premises, a man exhibiting suspicious behavior was detained. It was clarified that the individual was apprehended outside the petrol station during the perimeter check, not within the facility itself.
“After spending eight hours in custody and with proper legal representation, the suspect was released on administrative bail pending further investigations,” the ACG explained.
Oladeji reiterated that Operation Whirlwind is a strategic effort aligned with the Federal Government’s mission to enhance transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency within the downstream petroleum sector, ensuring the protection of national assets for the welfare of Nigerians.
The operation collaborates closely with agencies such as the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), among others.
“Fuel smuggling not only results in significant revenue losses for the government but also disrupts local supply chains, causing artificial shortages and price volatility,” he cautioned.
He called on Nigerians to assist Customs by sharing credible intelligence, stressing that collective vigilance is crucial to dismantling smuggling networks and safeguarding the country’s economy.
“Moving forward, we are committed to strengthening inter-agency partnerships, broadening our operational scope, and raising public awareness about the risks associated with smuggling and resource misappropriation,” Oladeji concluded.