Nigeria Customs Denies Allegations of Distributing Poisoned Rice, Labels Reports “False and Misleading”

 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), through its Seme Area Command, has firmly denied and condemned reports circulating on social media and some online platforms claiming that it seized and distributed bags of poisoned rice, which allegedly resulted in multiple deaths — including that of a military personnel in Badagry, Lagos State.

These allegations have sparked widespread concern and confusion, prompting the Customs authorities to issue an official statement to set the record straight.

In a press release made available to the public, the Customs Public Relations Officer, Isah Sulaiman, described the allegations as “false, misleading, and entirely baseless.” According to the viral claims, the Customs allegedly distributed contaminated rice that had earlier been seized, and it was said that a traditional curse had been placed on the rice by the unknown original owner, supposedly leading to fatal consequences for those who consumed it.

However, Sulaiman insisted that there is no truth whatsoever in the story. He strongly denied the reports and emphasized that the Seme Command operates with strict adherence to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) set by the Nigeria Customs Service. These procedures, he explained, guide how seized goods — such as rice — are handled, stored, and disposed of.

According to Sulaiman:

“The Command wishes to categorically state that this narrative is entirely false, misleading, and does not reflect the reality of the matter.”

He stressed that the Command’s actions are grounded in transparency, due process, and full legal compliance. Furthermore, he clarified that there have been no deaths reported within the jurisdiction of the Seme Area Command, nor among its personnel, that can be linked in any way to the consumption of any rice or food items distributed by the Command.

In strong terms, Sulaiman condemned the individuals behind the false story, accusing them of spreading dangerous misinformation while pretending to be journalists. He warned that such reckless reporting can cause unnecessary panic, create public mistrust, and tarnish the image of government institutions that are working hard to uphold national security and public welfare.

“Unfortunately, some unscrupulous elements wearing the garment of journalism have chosen to disinform members of the public with baseless, fictitious, and malicious accusations,” he added.

The Customs spokesperson urged members of the public to be cautious about the kind of information they consume and share, especially when such information lacks credible sources. He warned against falling victim to rumors and deliberate attempts to mislead the masses, urging everyone to verify facts before believing or spreading stories that could incite fear or damage reputations.

The Seme Area Command, under the leadership of Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, PhD, also took the opportunity to reaffirm its unwavering dedication to its core responsibilities. These include:

• Boosting revenue generation for the country

• Fighting against smuggling and illegal importation of goods

• Facilitating legitimate trade and business transactions

• Upholding national policies and following all relevant legal frameworks

The Command called on the public to support its efforts rather than undermine them with unfounded accusations. It also encouraged journalists and media practitioners to commit to ethical standards by fact-checking stories and avoiding sensationalism that could endanger lives or disrupt public order.

In conclusion, the Nigeria Customs Service wants Nigerians to know that it remains focused on its mandate and will continue to operate with professionalism, accountability, and respect for the law — despite the distractions caused by false narratives.