Seized Petrol Sold at Discounted Price, Yola Residents Erupt in Jubilation

Seized Petrol Sold at Discounted Price, Yola Residents Erupt in Jubilation

By Prince Benson Davies

Yola, Adamawa State, erupted in jubilation on November 27, 2024, as residents welcomed the Comptroller-General of Customs’ directive to sell seized gasoline at subsidized rates. The smuggled petrol, confiscated by operatives of Operation Whirlwind, will be sold to residents at a significantly lower price, bringing much-needed relief to the community.

Addressing journalists on November 27, 2024, in Yola, Adamawa State capital, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Comptroller Hussain Ejibunu, praised CGC Adeniyi and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for their support. He clarified that the initiative alleviates the impact of subsidy removal in the state.

Ejibunu explained that the seized products, intended for illegal export, were confiscated through intelligence and surveillance operations, significantly easing fuel scarcity in the region. The total seizure included 1,124 jerrycans (25, 40, and 60 litres), 53 drums (200 litres each), and 21,000 litres transported in two tankers, amounting to 71,965 litres, valued at over ₦81.5 million.

He revealed that most of the seizures occurred along the Cameroon-Nigeria border. In a collaborative effort, the Service transferred 13 of the 14 intercepted tankers to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) in Yola.

Ejibunu confirmed that one of the suspects linked to smuggling activities had been arrested and is currently facing prosecution. He further noted that Operation Whirlwind had helped stabilise the fuel supply in Adamawa State, reducing scarcity and price volatility. The operation’s broader strategy aims to ‘’curb the activities of illegal oil bunkers and marketers. Urges legitimate oil marketers to continue their businesses without fear of harassment, appreciating their contributions in the fight against smuggling.

The CAC Adamawa/Taraba Command Comptroller Garba Bashir stressed the need for collaboration among all stakeholders, stating, “This fight requires collective responsibility. He called on the press, stakeholders, and Nigerians to share intelligence to combat smuggling and boost economic growth.

Humuri Timothy, representative of NMDPRA in Adamawa, commended the Customs Service for their initiatives to tackle fuel smuggling across Nigeria’s borders.