By: Nwakaji Peace Martins
The Nigeria Customs Service management announced on Tuesday that one of its officers, responsible for a viral video, was involved in a confrontation with officials from the Vehicle Inspection Office and will be subject to disciplinary action for their behavior.
In a statement signed by Mr. Abdullahi Naiwada, a Chief Superintendent of Customs and the Spokesman of the Customs Service, it was stated that the actions of the officers in the video were not in line with the core values and operational standards of the NCS. Naiwada also mentioned that such behavior undermines a fundamental objective of the Comptroller-General of Customs, which is to enhance cooperation with other security agencies and stakeholders to ensure the safety and security of Nigerians and their assets.
Naiwada stated: “We have been made aware of a video circulating on social media depicting a confrontation between Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) officers and Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO). The incident took place on Friday, 24th May 2024, at the AYA Roundabout, Abuja VIO Office. The officers involved in this unfortunate incident are NCS personnel assigned to the Customs Mechanical Unit in Karu Barracks, Abuja.
“The Service expresses deep concern and sympathy for those affected by this unfortunate incident. Additionally, the NCS completely disassociates itself from the actions of these officers. Their reprehensible behavior, seemingly driven by personal motives, is currently under thorough investigation, and appropriate disciplinary actions will be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“Under the leadership of CGC Adewale Adeniyi and his Management Team, the NCS strongly condemns such conduct and does not tolerate any actions that undermine the commitment to professionalism and cooperation among agencies. The Service remains resolute in its mandate to generate revenue, facilitate trade, and combat smuggling to promote a more robust and secure economy for all Nigerians.”
It should be noted that some Nigeria Customs Service personnel visited the Vehicle Inspectors’ office, leading to a confrontation that escalated into a physical altercation within the VIO premises.
