Jibia incident: Customs explains, sympathises over tragic loss of teenager

Maureen Aguta

The Nigeria Custom Service has expressed regret over the devastating loss of a young life in the Jibia Border Area of Katsina State on Saturday, February 3, 2024.

The Service in a statement by National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, a Chief Superintendent of Customs, expressed its heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the innocent teenagers whose life was tragically cut short.

The statement reads in part: “It is pertinent to address the misinformation circulating in the media regarding the reported killing of the teenager by a reckless driver of a J5 vehicle. The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone B, headquartered in Kaduna, covers 10 states plus the FCT, including Katsina, where the Jibia border is situated.

“We wish to clarify that our operatives neither drove the J5 vehicle nor intercepted it during the reported incident, contrary to some press allegations of the involvement of our Officers. Preliminary reports suggest that the J5 vehicle was transporting soya beans, and the driver is currently in Police custody pending further investigation.”

The statement further disclosed that Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, alongside the officers and men of the service, expresses profound sympathy with the bereaved.

The CGC reiterates his unwavering commitment to fostering harmonious community relations and conducting anti-smuggling operations without casualties. He also urges members of the public to adhere to Government directives and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and security in our communities.

“In this moment of grief and loss, we appeal for calmness from all stakeholders. We deeply appreciate the ongoing cooperation extended by the Border communities as we work together to address challenges and promote safety and prosperity for all,” the statement concluded.