NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE OYO/OSUN AREA COMMAND COMMENCES INVESTIGATION INTO INCIDENT AT OSOGBO AXIS

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Oyo/Osun Area Command, has taken note of a video currently circulating on social media as well as a press release issued by the Osun State Police Command regarding an incident reported to have occurred on March 15, 2026, along the Osogbo axis. The Command is concerned about the public reactions generated by the development and considers it necessary to provide clarification while efforts are ongoing to establish the full facts surrounding the incident.

Preliminary information available to the Command indicates that officers attached to the Oyo/Osun Area Command patrol team were on routine enforcement duty within the Osogbo axis, attempting to intercept suspected smuggled foreign-used vehicles (popularly known as Tokunbo vehicles). The operation was in line with the statutory mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service to suppress smuggling and enforce existing trade regulations across the country.

The Command deeply regrets the loss of life recorded during the incident and extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased. The Nigeria Customs Service holds the sanctity of human life in the highest regard and remains committed to ensuring that its enforcement operations are carried out with the utmost professionalism, responsibility, and adherence to established operational guidelines.

Consequently, the Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident as captured in the circulating footage. As part of this process, an audit of the operational mandates of the officers identified in the report—Kolawole Suuti and Danjuma Samuel—has been initiated to determine whether their actions and the tactical approach adopted were in full compliance with the Service’s Rules of Engagement.

The Nigeria Customs Service remains a disciplined and professional institution committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting lives. While maintaining its longstanding collaborative relationship with the Nigeria Police Force, the Service calls for a harmonized and objective investigation that will take into account all relevant forensic variables, including the origin of the ammunition reportedly discharged during the incident.

The Oyo/Osun Area Command therefore urges members of the public to remain calm and allow due process to take its course. The public is also advised to refrain from spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary tension between security agencies or within the affected communities. The outcome of the ongoing investigation will guide any further actions in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Signed:
Abdulmalik Akintola
Assistant Superintendent of Customs I
Command Public Relations Officer

For:
Ag. Customs Area Controller
Oyo/Osun Area Command