The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a statement to clarify a video circulating on social media, which captures a tragic shooting incident involving some operatives of the Service.

In the statement, National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, explained that the incident occurred on Sunday, February 17, 2019, and not recently, as portrayed by some online platforms. “The NCS wishes to categorically state that the incident in question occurred on Sunday, 17 February 2019, and not a recent development, as portrayed by some online platforms,” Maiwada said.

Maiwada noted that the Service took immediate steps to address the situation, including establishing a disciplinary panel to investigate the matter. “A public statement was issued at the time, and a disciplinary panel was established to investigate the matter thoroughly. At the end of the process, appropriate sanctions were applied, including the dismissal of the officers found culpable,” Maiwada added.

The NCS urged citizens to avoid spreading misleading content and instead seek accurate information through official channels. Maiwada emphasized that the Service values the vigilance and feedback of Nigerians and is committed to delivering professional, accountable service while upholding the principles of integrity and respect for human dignity.

Maiwada also highlighted the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, in upholding transparency and respect for the rule of law. “Under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and his management team, the NCS continues to uphold transparency and respect for the rule of law,” Maiwada said.