Comptroller Godwin Otunla Records Significant Seizures Worth N1.4bn

Spread the love

By Asuquo Nuwak

Comptroller Godwin Otunla Records Significant Seizures Worth N1.4bn

••• Generates a total revenue of N45, 054, 191.00, representing a commendable increase of 27.47 precent

The emergence of Comptroller Godwin Otunla may not be too far from an intention to completely tackling smuggling activities in Ogun 1 Area Command, Idioroko.

And he seems determined not to put any one in doubt. The command under his exceptional leadership and within the period under review recorded remarkable achievements in anti-smuggling and revenue generation drive, which resulted in seizures of various prohibited items ranging from 4,425 bags of foreign parboiled rice of 50kg each, which is over seven truckloads.

Further breakdown of seizures included 50 sacks and 1, 936 parcels of coconut size of cannabis sativa, commonly known as marijuana, 105 pieces of used pneumatic tyres, 21 bales and three sacks of used clothing, 3 units of foreign used vehicles, commonly known as tokunbo, including Rolls Royce worth billion of Naira, 6,400 litres of premium motor spirit, with the Duty Paid Value of N1, 401, 531, 924 . 95 billion, representing a significant economic loss to smugglers, while it is a huge gain to the national economy and security.

He attributed the anti-smuggling achievements record to intelligence driven operations, resilience, and the unwavering commitment of the command’s gallant officers.

He cast his mind back on 3rd July 2025, when he addressed Journalists on the significant seizures recorded by the command, especially in the area of illicit drugs and their means of conveyance, he made a firm commitment that the command under his exceptional leadership would not relent in combating the menace of smuggling, nor bow to the antics of recalcitrant economic saboteurs who undermine the nation’s economy and security.

Commenting on the revenue performance of the command, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, announced that in July 2025, Ogun 1 Area Command generated a total revenue of N45, 054, 191.00, which is higher than the N35, 327, 852.00 recorded in the corresponding month of 2024.

In addition to this, he said this sustainable efforts in revenue generation represents a commendable increase of 27.4 percent. He further noted that this remarkable growth is a reflection of the command’s enhanced compliance drive, improved monitoring of border activities, and robust stakeholders engagement.

Comptroller Godwin Otunla, who appreciated the consistent inter-agency collaboration framework of NDLEA, also said the seized illicit drugs will be handed over to the commander of the NDLEA, Idiroko special command, for further investigation and necessary action.

Comptroller Godwin Otunla is quoted as saying that: “This synergy is not only in compliance with government directives, but also reinforces our collective determination to safeguard public health, ensure national security, and protect the future of our youths from the devastating effects of hard drugs”.

He commended the gallant officers and men of Ogun 1 Area command for their resilience and dedication. Aside from this, he also appreciated the support of the sister security agencies and cooperation of patriotic members of the border communities who continue to provide credible intelligence to aid the command’s operations.

Comptroller Godwin Otunla, who reiterated that the fight against smuggling remains a collective responsibility, also said the command will continue to build on collaboration, intelligence sharing, and innovation, in line with the policy thrust of the Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, dsm, fnipr, fniia, psc(+), who has been consistent in his drive for consolidation, collaboration, and innovation.

Comptroller Godwin Otunla is quoted as saying that: “I once again sound a clear warning to smugglers and their collaborators, that Ogun 1 Area command will not relent in their efforts in fighting the menace of smuggling.
We remain vigilant, resolute , and unyielding. No matter the sophistication of your tricks, our officers will continue to thwart your antics, and we shall bring the full weight of law against you”.

At the end of the press briefing, he thanked gentlemen of press for their presence, cooperation, and consistent partnership in sensitizing the public on the dangers of smuggling.

Besides, he further stated that the command shall continue to protect the nation’s economy, secure the borders, and safeguard the lives of our citizens.