The Niger/Kogi Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it has seized 253.6 kilograms of suspected cannabis sativa, valued at N20.6 million in Abuja-Lokoja.
The NCS Area Controller, Niger/Kogi command, Mr. Busayo Kadejo, disclosed this on Tuesday in Minna, while handing over the suspected weed to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for prudent investigation.
Kadejo said the items were seized by the service’s patrol team.
“We have obtained the necessary approval from the NCS Comptroller-General, Retired Colonel Hameed Ali and I hereby hand over the seized cannabis to the Niger State NDLEA Commander for further action,” he said.
Kadejo further stated that the goods weighed 253.6kg, with a street value of about N20.605 million.
He decried the situation where some responsible citizens are working hard to build the country while others are engaging in actions that are not conducive to the development of Nigeria.
“I am glad that because of my diligence in applying for the job, our officers were able to intercept this illegal package.
“If these packages escape our eyes, they will certainly help in the execution and sustenance of crimes, such as banditry, kidnapping, thugs and other social crimes,” he said.
The watchdog said the service was making efforts to nab the owners of the contraband that ran away.
As the general election nears, he stressed that the public must report suspicious activities to security agencies in order for the polls to be trusted.
Kadejo reiterated the service’s commitment to combating smuggling activities in the country and reducing such activities to a minimum.
Responding, the NDLEA Commander in the state, Mr. Haruna Kwetishe, promised that the agency would pursue suspected drug users, dealers and barons in the state to ensure credible polls.
Kwetishe, who commended the NCS for the seizure, added that the NDLEA will ensure that illegal drugs do not return to the community.
According to him, Nigeria is the project of all citizens and not just the security agencies.
“That is why all hands must be on deck to save our country,” he said.