By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Smuggling trucks : Government intercepts 141 smuggling trucks; Drivers threaten strike amid attacks
In a bid to tackle food inflation and the rising cost of living, the Federal Government revealed on Tuesday that it had intercepted 141 trucks attempting to smuggle grains and other staples out of Nigeria. The trucks were destined for neighboring countries such as Niger Republic, Chad, Cameroon, and the Central African Republic.
According to Bashir Adeniyi, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), approximately 120 trucks smuggling food items from Nigeria were apprehended within a two-week period. Additionally, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) halted 21 food trucks from leaving the country on Tuesday.
While addressing the House of Representatives in Abuja, Adeniyi outlined the government’s efforts to ensure food security. However, truck drivers, who have been increasingly targeted by criminals, threatened to go on strike if the attacks persisted.
Numerous trucks and warehouses, predominantly owned by manufacturers and private sector entities, have fallen victim to attacks by hoodlums amidst the country’s food inflation crisis.
Recent incidents include the looting of food items from trucks stuck in traffic along the Kaduna Road in Niger State and attacks on warehouses in Abuja. The wave of violence extended to Ogun and Kaduna states, where trucks carrying building materials and spaghetti were targeted by youths.
In response to these alarming developments, the organized private sector warned that continued attacks could lead to the shutdown of industries nationwide.
During a sectoral debate series at the House of Representatives, Adeniyi reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s directive to divert arrested trucks carrying food items to local markets. This measure aims to reduce the prices of grains and other food items in affected areas.
Adeniyi emphasized that combating food smuggling was crucial in addressing hunger and preventing individuals from exploiting the situation for personal gain. He cautioned against hasty solutions and stressed the importance of implementing long-term measures to tackle food scarcity effectively.
Regarding the auction of seized food items, Adeniyi disclosed that President Tinubu instructed the NCS to sell confiscated goods directly to needy Nigerians. The auction program initially launched in Lagos was suspended following a tragic stampede at the NCS Old Zonal Headquarters in Yaba.
Meanwhile, the EFCC’s Maiduguri zonal command intercepted 21 trucks loaded with food and non-food items destined for neighboring countries. These trucks were apprehended along major exit routes in Borno State.
In response to the escalating attacks on trucks, Yusuf Othman, the National President of the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), warned that transporters might halt the transportation of food and fuel commodities if the situation persisted. Othman urged state governments to address the looting of trucks and enhance security on the roads to prevent further disruptions to the supply chain.
As the nation grapples with food scarcity and security challenges, stakeholders emphasize the urgent need for concerted efforts to safeguard the distribution of essential commodities and ensure the well-being of all citizens.
Smuggling Trucks, Attacks