The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has strongly refuted reports alleging that it distributed bags of poisoned rice that allegedly caused multiple deaths, including that of a soldier in Badagry, Lagos State.
In an official statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Isah Sulaiman, the allegations were described as “false, misleading, and entirely baseless.”
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According to the reports making the rounds, the Command was accused of releasing confiscated bags of rice without the consent of the original owner, who was said to have invoked traditional powers that resulted in fatalities. Sulaiman dismissed the story as a fabrication with no basis in fact.
“The Command wishes to categorically state that this narrative is entirely false and does not reflect the reality of the matter,” he said.
Sulaiman affirmed that the disposal of seized goods by the Seme Area Command follows the Nigeria Customs Service’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), which emphasize transparency, due process, and strict adherence to legal guidelines.
He also stated that there had been no reports or incidents within the Command’s jurisdiction suggesting that anyone had died from consuming rice released by the NCS. He criticized those circulating the story, accusing them of spreading misinformation under the guise of journalism.
“Unfortunately, some unscrupulous elements wearing the garment of journalism have chosen to disinform the public with baseless and malicious accusations,” he said.
The Command urged the public to disregard the viral claims, warning against the spread of false information that could cause public panic or undermine the reputation of security agencies.
Under the leadership of Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, PhD, the Seme Area Command reiterated its commitment to revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations, and the facilitation of lawful trade in full compliance with government directives and legal standards.
, Seme Area Command, has strongly refuted reports alleging that it distributed bags of poisoned rice that allegedly caused multiple deaths, including that of a soldier in Badagry, Lagos State.){kind=link}