The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Oyo/Osun Area Command has expressed sadness over an incident captured in a viral video circulating on social media and a related statement issued by the Osun State Police Command concerning an event reported to have occurred on March 15, 2026, along the Osogbo axis.
In a statement issued by the Command Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Customs, Abdulmalik Akintola, the Command acknowledged the public concern generated by the reports and stressed the need to present a professional perspective while authorities work to establish the full details of the incident.
According to the statement, preliminary information indicates that officers attached to the Oyo/Osun Area Command patrol team were on routine enforcement duty within the Osogbo axis when they attempted to intercept suspected smuggled foreign-used vehicles, commonly known as “Tokunbo.”
The operation, the Command explained, was in line with the statutory responsibility of the Service to suppress smuggling and enforce trade regulations.
The Command, however, expressed deep regret over the loss of life recorded during the incident and extended its condolences to the family of the deceased.
“The Service recognises the sanctity of human life and remains committed to ensuring that its enforcement operations are conducted with the utmost sense of responsibility and professionalism,” the statement noted.
It added that the Command has commenced a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident as captured in the circulating footage. The investigation will include a review of the operational mandates of the officers identified as Kolawole Suuti and Danjuma Samuel to determine whether their actions and tactical approach complied with the Service’s strict Rules of Engagement.
The Customs Service reaffirmed that it remains a disciplined and professional organisation committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting lives.
While noting its strong working relationship with the Nigeria Police Force, the Command called for a harmonised and objective investigation that would take into account all forensic variables, including the origin of the discharged ammunition.
The Oyo/Osun Area Command also urged members of the public to remain calm and allow due process to take its course.
It cautioned against the spread of unverified information capable of inciting unnecessary tension between sister security agencies or within the community, adding that the outcome of the investigation would guide further actions in line with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
