By Daniel Edu
The Nigeria Customs Service, Oyo/Ogun Command, has announced its intention to resume the distribution of seized rice and other food items as part of efforts to alleviate the prevailing hardship faced by Nigerians. The Area Controller, Oyo/Osun Command, Ben Oramalugo, disclosed this during a press briefing at the command headquarters in Ibadan.
The Customs had earlier initiated the distribution of seized food items following the Federal Government’s directive to assist Nigerians amid the challenging economic conditions. However, the rice distribution was temporarily halted after a tragic incident in Lagos, where individuals attempting to gain access to the venue resulted in multiple casualties.
Oramalugo emphasized that the renewed distribution aims to address the hardship exacerbated by soaring food prices and the overall high cost of living. The Customs Service intends to collaborate with the Federal Government to finalize the modalities for the distribution, ensuring that the process is well-organized to avoid a recurrence of the unfortunate incident in Lagos.
The Area Controller stressed the commitment to fairness and transparency in the distribution process. Eligible beneficiaries will undergo careful screening and verification to guarantee an equitable allocation of seized rice and other food items. Oramalugo assured the public of regular updates on the progress of the distribution.
He also reiterated the Customs’ stance against smuggling, emphasizing the illegality of such activities. Oramalugo called for public support in combating smuggling, underscoring the need to adhere to legal channels for importing goods into the country.
