By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has denied allegations that it seized and distributed bags of rice without the knowledge of the purported owner, who then allegedly invoked traditional powers leading to the death of individuals, including a soldier at Badagry.
Setting the record Straight, the Command described the claims as”entirely false, misleading, and does not reflect the reality of the matter.”
The Command emphasized that it adheres to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for disposing of seized goods, guided by transparency, due support, and strict adherence to laws and guidelines.
According to the statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, CSC Isah Sulaiman to Newspoint247 on Sunday, May 11, it explained that there is no evidence to support claims, no incident within its Area of Responsibility (AoR) or among personnel corroborates the false claims of deaths resulting from rice consumption linked to the NCS, saying that the Command is confident that its operations are transparent and in line with established protocols.
Condemning irresponsible journalism, NCS condemned the spread of false information by some individuals claiming to be journalists, who use their platform to spread misinformation and tarnish the image of security agencies. The Command urged the public to be cautious of such malicious reports.
Public advisory, NCS urged the general public to disregard the unfounded story and refrain from spreading false information that could incite fear or tarnish the image of security agencies working tirelessly to safeguard the nation.
Commitment to mandate,” Seme Area Command, under the leadership of Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, PhD, remains committed to its mandate of revenue generation, suppressing smuggling, and facilitating legitimate trade professionally and responsibly in accordance with extant government fiscal policies and laws”
