Nigeria Customs Service Sells Seized Petrol for ₦400 Per Litre

The Nigeria Customs Service has begun auctioning seized petrol at ₦400 per litre, raising discussions on transparency and the implications for fuel distribution.

Hussein Ejibunu, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, has revealed intentions to publicly auction 15,325 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, that have been confiscated.

The initiative seeks to ease transportation challenges during the holiday season.

In a recent statement to journalists in Ikeja, which was posted on the service’s official Facebook page, Ejibunu disclosed that officers operating in the Lagos-Ogun Axis had confiscated 613 jerrycans of PMS. The duty-paid value for these seizures amounts to ₦27.5 million.

Opting to auction the seized fuel highlights the operation’s dedication to enhancing public welfare while addressing unlawful activities in the petroleum industry.

Ejibunu highlighted that the auction proceeds will adhere to legal protocols, guaranteeing transparency and accountability.

Ejibunu mentioned that the operation, which began on May 27, 2024, has produced positive outcomes.

He emphasized that Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller General of Customs, has encouraged the operatives to maintain their efforts until the activities of these economic saboteurs are completely eradicated from the country.

Ejibunu revealed that, following the CGC’s instructions to auction the seized PMS, a court condemnation order and all necessary legal procedures have been completed by the office of the legal adviser.

“In light of this, the CGC has instructed that auctions be held for the seized product to allow public purchase at N10,000 per 25 liters (N400 per liter). This measure aims to alleviate transportation difficulties during the festive season,” he concluded.