The leadership of the Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Idiroko Border, Ogun State, has embarked on a strategic visit to the palace of the paramount ruler of Yewaland, Ilaro in the state, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, to solicit his kingdom’s alliance as the Command begins to intensify water-tight security around the border area in the build up to the 2027 general election. A statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer (CPRO), Zach Chado, said the visit was part of a strategic initiative to fortify national security ahead of the upcoming election cycle.
Led by the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Oladapo Afeni, the courtesy visit, according to the statement,
“centered on the critical implementation of pre-election measures designed to eliminate the movement of dangerous goods, including small arms, light weapons and illicit narcotics, through the land borders of Ogun State”.
In his address to the monarch and his palace Chiefs, acting CAC Afeni said that “The proximity of Yewaland to the international frontiers makes the community a vital partner in national security. Our borders must not become gateways for elements seeking to destabilize our democratic process.
“As we approach the elections, the Nigeria Customs Service is intensifying its zero tolerance policy on the smuggling of dangerous goods. We are here to seek the royal blessing and the cooperation of the community to ensure that our land borders remain hostile to smugglers and traffickers”.
While both parties engaged in a dialogue, DC Afeni outlined several proactive steps the Area Command has taken to ensure effective security of the border corridors which involve the establishment of direct communication channels between border community leaders, increased visibility and 24-hour surveillance of known smugglers’ routes and unapproved crossings, as well as rigorous inspection of transit goods to prevent the concealment of lethal items.
Offering his kingdom’s support for, and collaboration with the Area Command, Oba Olugbenle commended the NCS for its proactive stance in securing the borders. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Yewa people to maintaining peace and order, noting that security remains a collective responsibility of all citizens.
The Oba said, “The throne will continue to sensitize our youths and residents against aiding or abetting any form of illegal trade. We want an election that is free of violence, and that starts with ensuring that weapons do not find their way into the hands of unscrupulous individuals.
Afeni also engaged in a strategic tour of other border kingdoms, including those of the Onihumbe of Ohunbe, Olu of Owode and Obele frontier.
The statement added, “The Controller’s first stop was the palace of the Onihumbe of Ohumbe, Oba Adekola Oje Oladokun, followed by a visit to the Olu of Owode, Oba Mathew Akindele.
“During these audiences, the Controller emphasized that national security is a collective responsibility and thanked the monarchs for their continued role in maintaining peace and urged them to sensitize their subjects, particularly the youths against the dangers of smuggling”.
Speaking at these kingdoms, CAC Afeni said, “We are not here to hinder trade, but to facilitate legitimate trade. However, the law remains the law. By working closely with the Onihumbe, the Olu of Owode, and the people of Obele border town, we can create a corridor that is hostile to smugglers, but welcoming to honest businessmen”.
