In a press statement released by Isah Sulaiman, the Customs Public Relations Officer for the Seme Area Command, the Nigeria Customs Service has strongly denied widespread allegations that it distributed poisoned rice which allegedly caused multiple deaths, including that of a soldier, in Badagry.
The statement, dated May 11, 2025, described the narrative as “entirely false, misleading, and does not reflect the reality of the matter.” The Command clarified that all seized goods are disposed of in line with laid-down procedures that emphasize transparency and adherence to established laws.
According to Sulaiman, “no incident within the Command’s Area of Responsibility or among personnel corroborates the false claims of deaths resulting from rice consumption linked to the NCS.”
The Service also condemned those behind the viral story, describing them as “unscrupulous elements wearing the garment of journalism” who seek to mislead the public rather than uphold their social responsibility.
The Seme Customs Command, led by Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, reiterated its continued commitment to suppressing smuggling, facilitating legitimate trade, and carrying out its duties professionally in line with Nigeria’s fiscal policies.
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