The Oyo/Osun command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has denied media reports alleging that its personnel shot and killed two persons in Eruwa community during last Saturday’s local government elections in Oyo State.
The command in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Customs, Kayode Wey noted that a careful review of intelligence gathered indicated that there was a clash between political supporters of candidates which led to the destruction of properties and possible loss of lives as being reported but wrongly linked to the Nigeria Customs Service as according to the command, the Service had nothing to do with the unfortunate situation.
It maintained that contrary to claims in various reports, no customs personnel or vehicle was sighted during and after the election process and at the scene of the incident.
“For the avoidance of doubt, our officers are identified by their official uniform and uniquely coloured operational vehicles while performing our statutory duties.
“The vehicle in question at the scene of the incident was reported to be a White Toyota Hilux pickup which is not for the Nigeria Customs Service.
“While the motive for the linkage of the Service to the story remains unknown, we state clearly that Nigeria Customs Service personnel were not there and could not have been involved in a political crisis.
“Therefore, we urge members of the public to desist from spreading false news that is capable of breaching peace.
“This dangerous false narrative should be ignored and seen as handwork of those who do not want peace and mutual relationship between the Service and the host communities.
“Nigeria Customs Service will remain committed to the course of nation building by discharging its statutory functions of suppressing smuggling, revenue generation and facilitation of legitimate trade in tandem with the Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA) Cap C45 LFN2004”, the command said.
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