Customs Intervenes in Festive Fuel Crisis, Auctions Seized Petrol at ₦630/Litre
…Sells Seized Product to Oyo Residents Amidst Soaring Fuel Prices
Ibadan, Oyo State – In a bid to alleviate the pressure of rising fuel prices during the festive season, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) auctioned seized petrol to residents of Ibadan, Oyo State, at ₦630 per liter. The sale, which took place at Afoo Filling Station in the Masfala area of Ibadan on December 21, 2024, saw about 20,000 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) sold to the public. This petrol had been intercepted while being smuggled out of the country by operatives of Operation Whirlwind in the Oyo/Osun axis.
According to Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu, National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, the seized 30,750 liters of fuel had a duty-paid value of ₦42.75 million. “The sale followed a court condemnation order after the goods remained unclaimed,” he explained, adding that the directive to auction the petrol came from Comptroller General of Customs, Bashiru Adeniyi, to improve public access to fuel during the holidays. Ejibunu further warned smugglers of stiff penalties, emphasizing that economic sabotage would not be tolerated.
The initiative has drawn mixed reactions. While some residents welcomed the opportunity to buy fuel at a lower price compared to the ₦1,050 per liter charged by some independent stations, others questioned the impact of smuggling and the inefficiency of the fuel distribution system on the nation’s economy. A local resident, Adebola Femi, described the auction as a “temporary relief,” saying, “At least we can afford petrol for now, but this won’t solve the larger issue of fuel scarcity.”
Economic experts have highlighted the significance of such seizures on curbing revenue losses and ensuring market stability. Dr. Emeka Uche, a financial analyst, noted, “Smuggling of petrol erodes the nation’s economic base by depriving the government of much-needed revenue. The Customs’ action demonstrates their resolve to protect national assets, but it also underscores the need for systemic reforms in the energy sector.”
Despite the commendation for Customs, critics argue that selling seized petrol at ₦630 per liter still places a burden on consumers, especially during an economic downturn. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for a reversal of rising fuel prices, describing the situation as “untenable.” In a statement, the NLC remarked, “Nigerians are grappling with increased costs of living, and measures like this, while commendable, are insufficient to address the root cause of the crisis.”
This operation follows a similar one conducted two months ago in Yola, Adamawa State, where seized petrol was sold at the regulated price of ₦10,000 per 25-liter keg. Legal proceedings are still underway against suspects apprehended during that raid. Ejibunu reaffirmed the Customs’ dedication to ensuring that seized goods benefit Nigerians, adding, “We urge citizens to collaborate with us by reporting economic saboteurs.”
As the festive season unfolds, the Customs’ move provides short-term relief for many residents. However, the broader issue of smuggling and its impact on the nation’s economy highlights the need for stronger policies and enforcement mechanisms to secure Nigeria’s resources and protect its citizens from undue economic hardship. GMTNewsng
