By Peace Udugba
The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that smugglers blocked the Atan Road in Ogun State, describing the claims as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Chado Zakari, on behalf of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, the Command clarified that the traffic disruption was caused by a road accident and had no connection with smuggling activities.
According to the statement, a commercial trailer conveying goods overturned at a badly damaged section of the Atan Road, leading to a major traffic gridlock. The vehicles caught in the congestion were legitimate commercial trucks transporting red palm oil to various local markets.
The Command explained that the presence of the trucks in the traffic jam was mistakenly interpreted by some members of the public as a convoy of smugglers, resulting in the spread of false information on social media.
The Ogun I Area Command urged members of the public and media organisations to verify information through official channels before sharing unconfirmed reports capable of causing unnecessary panic and misinformation.
Reaffirming its commitment to the fight against smuggling and the protection of Nigeria’s borders, the Command encouraged the public to rely on verified information from the Nigeria Customs Service and other credible sources.
