The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has firmly denied allegations circulating online that it seized and later distributed poisoned rice, allegedly resulting in multiple deaths—including that of a soldier in Badagry, Lagos State.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Isah Sulaiman, the reports were described as “false, misleading, and entirely baseless.” The viral claims suggested that confiscated rice, supposedly cursed by an unknown owner, had been released and consumed, leading to fatal consequences.
Sulaiman dismissed the allegations as a fabrication, emphasizing that the Seme Area Command strictly adheres to the Nigeria Customs Service’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) when handling seized goods. He noted that these procedures are guided by transparency, due process, and full legal compliance.
“The Command wishes to categorically state that this narrative is entirely false, misleading, and does not reflect the reality of the matter,” Sulaiman said.
He further clarified that there have been no reported deaths within the Command’s jurisdiction or among its personnel in connection with the alleged rice distribution. He strongly condemned those responsible for spreading the story, accusing them of hiding behind the guise of journalism to mislead the public.
“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 Seme Command urged the public to disregard the rumors and avoid spreading misinformation that could incite panic or undermine trust in law enforcement agencies.
Led by Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, PhD, the Seme Area Command reaffirmed its dedication to revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations, and the facilitation of legitimate trade in line with national policies and the law.
