Subsidized Sale of Seized Petroleum Products to Yola Residents

 

By Lod Onyeji 

In a welcome move, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has authorized the sale of seized petroleum products to Yola residents in Adamawa State at a subsidized rate. This decision follows the recent seizure of petroleum products by operatives of Operation Whirlwind in the Adamawa-Taraba region.

According to Comptroller Hussain Ejibunu, National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, the initiative aims to alleviate the impact of subsidy removal in the state. The seized products, intended for illegal export, were confiscated through intelligence and surveillance operations, significantly easing fuel scarcity in the region.

Seizure Details

The total seizure included:

- _1,124 Jerry cans_ (25, 40, and 60 litres)

- _53 drums_ (200 litres each)

- _21,000 litres_ transported in two tankers

The total value of the seized products amounts to over ₦81.5 million. Most of the seizures occurred along the Cameroon-Nigeria border.

Collaborative Efforts

In a collaborative effort, the Service transferred 13 of the 14 intercepted tankers to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) in Yola. A suspect linked to smuggling activities has been arrested and is currently facing prosecution.

Impact and Future Plans

Operation Whirlwind has helped stabilize the fuel supply in Adamawa State, reducing scarcity and price volatility. The operation's broader strategy aims to curb the activities of illegal oil bunkers marketers. Legitimate oil marketers have been urged to continue their businesses without fear of harassment, appreciating their contributions in the fight against smuggling.

The Customs Area Controller (CAC) Adamawa/Taraba Command Comptroller Garba Bashir emphasized the need for collaboration among all stakeholders, stating, "This fight requires collective responsibility." He called on the press, stakeholders, and Nigerians to share intelligence to combat smuggling and boost economic growth.

Subsidized Sale of Seized Petroleum Products to Yola Residents