Illicit Trade: Afeni’s Onslaught Against Smugglers at Idiroko Border
Afeni
By Chinonso Apeh
When Deputy Comptroller O.Afeni assumed duty as Acting Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Command barely six weeks ago, few could have predicted the sweeping changes that would follow.
Today, the Command stands as a fortress of vigilance, a hub of professionalism, and a frontline shield against the twin threats of economic sabotage and national insecurity.
Afeni’s arrival has not only doubled enforcement efficiency but also recalibrated the delicate balance between trade facilitation and national security. His leadership style, proudly adjudged firm yet courteous, uncompromising yet professional has quickly distinguished Ogun I Command as a model of the Nigeria Customs Service’s mandate under the leadership of the Comptroller General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.
Perhaps, a distinct itemization of the scorecard under the following subheads would help create a better clarity of the issues under review.
A Transformed Command
There is no denying that the atmosphere at Idiroko and across Ogun’s border corridors has shifted dramatically. Smugglers who once operated with impunity along the Imeko and Ipokia axes now find themselves outmaneuvered. Afeni’s deep knowledge of the terrain, coupled with intelligence-driven operations, has forced many economic saboteurs to retreat beyond the jurisdiction of the Command.
Independent investigations reveal that most smugglers are based in Benin Republic, exploiting Nigeria as a dumping ground for narcotics, arms, used vehicles, foreign parboiled rice, and second-hand clothing. It is an uncontenstable fact that Afeni has drawn a red line against these illicit flows, declaring that compliance is non-negotiable and that threats will not be conceded to. There is no gainsaying that this stance has been manifestly evident in the past few weeks.
Narcotics Seizures Eclipse Rice
Perhaps the most telling achievement of Afeni’s tenure is the Command’s unprecedented success in narcotics interception. In January alone, Ogun I Command seized more than 4,260 parcels of cannabis sativa and indica, surpassing the 2,700 bags of foreign parboiled rice intercepted in the same period.
This shift is significant. For decades, rice smuggling dominated headlines, but Afeni’s focus on narcotics reflects a deeper understanding of their corrosive impact on society. “Drugs are central to criminality,” he explained, noting their role in fueling violence, addiction, and youth vulnerability.
Without fear or favour, one can say that the NCS vigilance through Afeni has even eclipsed the efforts of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at Idiroko, which struggles with inadequate facilities.
Arms, Instability, and Elections
Afeni’s heightened enforcement posture is not without context. With political instability in neighboring Benin Republic and Nigeria’s upcoming elections, the Command has intensified scrutiny of imports to prevent arms and ammunition from slipping through.
“We are more vigilant to prevent arms and narcotics smuggling into the country,” Afeni told reporters recently, underscoring the Command’s dual responsibility of safeguarding Nigeria’s economy while protecting its security architecture.
Challenges on the Frontline
There is no doubt that the challenges remain daunting. Smugglers are resourceful, exploiting porous borders and light-weight packaging of narcotics to evade detection. The ready market among Nigerian youths makes the trade lucrative, while the geography of Ogun State, with its sprawling border communities, demands relentless policing.
Yet Afeni has refused to lower standards. Professionalism remains paramount, and officers are reminded that courtesy must never compromise compliance. His insistence on discipline has earned respect within the Service and admiration from traditional rulers who see Customs as both enforcer and partner.
Community Engagement and CSR
Afeni’s vision extends beyond seizures and enforcement. He has pledged constant engagement with communities and traditional institutions to educate them on the dangers of smuggling. By sharpening the Command’s corporate social responsibility (CSR), he hopes to foster cooperation and reduce the allure of smuggling among border residents.
Again, one can say without fear of favour that this outreach is critical. Smuggling thrives not only on porous borders but also on community complicity. Afeni’s approach of combining enforcement with education signals a long-term strategy to weaken smuggling networks at their roots.
A Sheriff with No Compromise
Afeni’s leadership style is defined by unremitting focus and respect for rules of engagement. He has proved his mettle as a competent administrator of men, materials, and resources. Under his watch, Ogun I Command has become a frontline shield against threats to Nigeria’s economy and security.
His message remains clear and unequivocal, that there will be no letting down, no compromise, and no negotiation with smugglers. In the words of one observer, “Afeni has turned Ogun I Command into a red zone for economic saboteurs.”
Conclusion
Despite his short stint so far, one can say with justification that Deputy Comptroller Afeni’s impactful, going tenure at Ogun I Command is a story of vigilance, discipline, and uncompromising adherence to standards. His achievements, particularly in narcotics and arms interception have positioned the Command as a bulwark against threats to Nigeria’s stability.
While above challenges remain, but Afeni’s iron resolve suggests that smugglers will find no easy passage through Ogun’s borders. For Nigeria Customs Service, his example is a reminder that professionalism, vigilance, and community engagement are the true pillars of enforcement.
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