The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has dismissed reports claiming smugglers barricaded the Idiroko–Sango Road in Ogun State, saying the incident was caused by a commercial trailer that broke down after hitting a damaged section of the road.
The clarification comes after reports circulated online suggesting smugglers had blocked one of the state’s key transport corridors, raising concerns about security along the border route.
Why it matters
The Idiroko corridor is a major gateway for trade and travel between Nigeria and neighbouring Benin Republic.
False reports about security incidents along the route can affect public confidence, disrupt legitimate business activities and create unnecessary fear among motorists and border communities.
According to the Command, the traffic gridlock occurred after a commercial trailer fell into a bad section of Atan Road, temporarily obstructing traffic.
It said the trucks caught in the congestion were transporting red palm oil to markets and were engaged in lawful commercial activities.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Zakari Chado, rejected claims that smugglers were responsible.
“The reports claiming smugglers blocked the road are false. The traffic disruption resulted from a road accident caused by poor road conditions. The vehicles involved were lawfully conveying red palm oil for legitimate commercial purposes,” Chado said.
He urged journalists, social media users and members of the public to verify information before publishing or sharing reports capable of causing panic or undermining confidence in security agencies.
Anti-smuggling operations continue
The Command said the reports do not reflect the current security situation within the Ogun I Area Command.
It noted that since Acting Customs Area Controller Comptroller Oladapo Afeni assumed office, the Command has expanded intelligence-led operations and strengthened collaboration with other security agencies and host communities.
According to the Command, those efforts have resulted in significant seizures of prohibited goods and sustained pressure on smuggling networks operating along the Ogun border.
Industry perspective
Stakeholders in the border trade and maritime sector also cautioned against the spread of unverified information.
They said inaccurate reports could damage the reputation of security agencies, discourage legitimate trade and create a misleading impression of insecurity in border communities.
Security analysts have consistently argued that misinformation during security-related incidents can divert operational attention, fuel public anxiety and complicate emergency responses, making verification essential before reports are shared.
What happens next?
The Ogun I Area Command says it will continue to intensify anti-smuggling operations while facilitating legitimate cross-border trade in line with the mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service.
It also called on the media and the public to support security efforts by verifying information before publication.
Culled from Nigeria updates
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