N3 Million Worth of Smuggled Rice Seized at Idiroko Border
In a decisive move against illegal trade, the Nigeria Customs Service at Idiroko Border has seized bags of rice worth over ₦3 million following a confrontation with smugglers at Ipokia market, Ogun State.
Mr. Rasheed Taiwo, the Area Comptroller of Customs in Idiroko, led the operation and strongly refuted claims that his command had become a hub for smuggling activities.
“Everybody who is anybody knows my stand on smuggling and smugglers,” he stated.
Why the Rice Was Seized
Although rice importation is not officially banned in Nigeria, Comptroller Taiwo clarified that the seized goods were smuggled in from Benin Republic without proper duty payments.
“The government says if you import rice, pass through the ports and pay duty. The duty on rice is about 120 percent. A bag of rice here might cost ₦2,500 but sells for ₦6,000 in Lagos. That profit margin explains the smugglers’ desperation,” he said.
Turkey: A Deadly Import
Taiwo also highlighted past efforts against smuggled frozen turkey, which is banned in Nigeria. He recalled a major seizure involving a luxury bus fully loaded with the product.
The items were stored and later destroyed in the presence of NAFDAC, SSS, Police, and veterinary quarantine officials.
“When we removed the nylon covers, every fly that perched on the turkey died instantly. That’s how poisonous the preservatives are. Today, people no longer crave turkey like before.”
Smuggler Violence and Child Involvement
While recounting the seizure operation, Taiwo noted that no arrests were made due to the chaotic nature of the confrontation. However, one individual was shot in the leg after attacking Customs officers with dangerous weapons.
“If there had been no gunshots, we might have seen multiple corpses on the street. That used to happen before, but I won’t allow it anymore.”
The Customs boss also expressed concern over the involvement of school children in smuggling. In Idiroko, some junior secondary students reportedly drive cars and buses, profiting from illegal trade.
“These kids make ₦5,000 per car. After five cars, that’s ₦25,000 a week. Some earn over ₦100,000 a month. That’s the root of the problem.”
Regional Challenges and International Appeal
Taiwo explained that the proximity to multiple seaports in Togo, Lome, Tema, and Accra makes the Idiroko border a prime smuggling route—unlike inland borders in states like Borno or Katsina.
He also appealed to the Benin Republic government to rein in its citizens who aid smuggling into Nigeria.
“I was part of President Obasanjo’s delegation to Benin Republic. He warned their President he was ready to close the border if smuggling wasn’t curbed.”
