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Legislators Probe Customs, Military Over Alleged Smuggling And Human Rights Violations
The House of Representatives has directed its Committees on Customs and Excise, along with Defence, to conduct a joint inquiry into the activities of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at the nation’s borders. This move follows allegations suggesting the service’s involvement in smuggling and reports of brutality against Nigerian citizens.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The investigation will also focus on the role of military personnel in Customs patrols, ensuring that their actions align with legal standards and respect for human rights.
The committees are tasked with recommending measures to improve oversight, accountability, and efficiency within the Customs Service to restore public trust and safeguard Nigeria’s economic and national security interests. They are expected to report their findings in six weeks.
This action follows reports of widespread smuggling, including goods and arms entering Nigeria through its borders, with Customs officers and other security personnel allegedly facilitating these activities.
Rep. Sesi Whingan presented a motion urging immediate investigation, highlighting Section 4 (b, e, and f) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, which mandates the NCS to collect revenue, prevent smuggling, and secure Nigeria’s borders. However, Whingan claimed recent reports point to Customs officers enabling such illegal activities instead of fulfilling their duties.
The lawmaker referenced a report from Sahara Reporters on November 18, 2024, which revealed that over 2,000 vehicles transporting 6,500,000 kg of rice were smuggled through Badagry, allegedly under the supervision of Customs officers. He also cited investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo’s videos showing the involvement of Customs officers in the smuggling network.
Additionally, Whingan raised concerns over Customs officers being implicated in violent incidents against citizens trying to expose smuggling activities. He mentioned a December 1, 2024, incident along the Badagry-Seme Expressway, where two transporters were assaulted by Customs and military personnel for documenting illegal actions.
The lawmaker stressed that smuggling undermines local industries, reduces government revenue, promotes unfair trade, and floods the market with substandard products. He emphasized that the actions of some Customs officers contradict their core responsibilities, erode public trust, and raise serious concerns about the oversight of joint military operations.
Despite these allegations, the NCS has yet to comment on the investigation or the reported incidents. Attempts to reach the NCS National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, were unsuccessful.
Whingan also noted that despite multiple checkpoints, particularly in Badagry, Customs officers and other law enforcement personnel reportedly extort traders and overlook smuggling activities at night, exacerbating economic hardship and damaging public trust.
Small businesses, particularly rice farmers and poultry producers, are struggling to compete with the influx of contraband goods, leading to job losses and poverty. Whingan warned that the erosion of law and order in border regions like Badagry threatens community stability and leaves citizens vulnerable.
The lawmaker stressed that the integrity of the NCS is crucial for securing Nigeria’s borders, promoting legitimate trade, and safeguarding the nation’s economy and social welfare. He called for urgent reform to rebuild public trust and preserve Nigeria’s sovereignty.
In February 2024, journalist Fisayo Soyombo released an exposé showing how he successfully smuggled rice into Nigeria from Benin with the assistance of compromised Customs officers. Soyombo’s investigation, based on numerous complaints about border security lapses, revealed how Customs officials provided inside information to smugglers, allowing illegal goods to pass unchecked.
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Niger State Governor, Umaru Mohammed Bago, has officially confirmed that his current deputy, Yakubu Garba, will remain his running mate for the 2027 gubernatorial election. During an announcement at the Government House in Minna, Governor Bago noted that Garba’s name will be submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in accordance with constitutional requirements. Addressing recent speculation, the Governor reaffirmed his partnership with Garba, stating, “I have called you to come and witness that my Deputy, Yakubu Garba, is still my running mate in 2027.”....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In separate developments, police in Niger State have arrested 38-year-old Hamisu Abdullahi for allegedly attempting to disrupt a public event. Abdullahi was taken into custody during the Governor’s visit to the Emir of Suleja after he reportedly shouted slogans regarding utility shortages. According to police spokesperson SP Wasiu Abiodun, the suspect has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Minna on charges related to suspected thuggery and the obstruction of government activities.
Option 2: Concise Summary
Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago of Niger State has reaffirmed his commitment to his deputy, Yakubu Garba, naming him as his running mate for the 2027 election. The Governor stated that this decision fulfills legal requirements for the upcoming INEC nomination process.
Meanwhile, authorities have apprehended Hamisu Abdullahi, 38, following a disturbance during the Governor’s visit to the Emir of Suleja. Abdullahi, who reportedly shouted “no water, no light,” is currently under investigation by the State Criminal Investigation Department for suspected thuggery and attempting to disrupt official government proceedings.
Former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, has rejected claims that the late former President Muhammadu Buhari’s policies caused the current economic hardship in Nigeria. During an interview on Arise Television, Sirika asserted that Nigeria’s economy and education sector were in a “good state” and “flourishing” under Buhari’s leadership.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
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Sirika maintained that Buhari “did extremely well” in managing the economy.
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He argued that it would be unfair to draw comparisons between the state of the country under Buhari and the current administration led by President Bola Tinubu.
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While expressing his belief that the nation was better off previously, Sirika stated he would not be drawn into debating the causes of current hardships.
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He declined to criticize the policies or decisions of either the past or current presidents, noting that he is not in a position to fully com
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has revealed that the governing body is exploring the possibility of expanding the 2030 World Cup to include 64 teams. This potential shift follows the recent expansion from 32 to 48 teams for the 2026 tournament, which increased the match count to 104. Infantino advocates for this change to provide smaller footballing nations with greater opportunities to qualify, arguing that increased representation motivates countries to invest in their local leagues, academies, and national programs. While the proposal remains subject to approval by FIFA’s decision-making bodies, it aims to narrow the competitive gap between traditional powerhouses and emerging teams. The 2030 event, which commemorates the tournament’s centenary, is already unique for being hosted by six countries across three continents: Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay, Morocco, Portugal, and Spain.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
FIFA is considering a massive shake-up for the 2030 World Cup, with President Gianni Infantino hinting at a potential expansion to 64 teams. Building on the success of the 48-team format introduced for 2026, Infantino believes that giving more countries a seat at the table is essential for the global development of the sport. He noted that under the current expanded format, teams from all continents have proven their competitiveness, suggesting that the divide between established nations and newcomers is shrinking. If approved, this 64-team structure would be implemented for a historic tournament already set to span three continents and six host nations to celebrate the competition’s 100th anniversary. FIFA is currently evaluating the logistical and financial implications of such an expansion before making a final decision.
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