The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has denied claims that it shared bags of poisoned rice that allegedly caused several deaths, including a soldier’s, in Badagry, Lagos State.
The allegation, which quickly spread across various platforms, suggested that the rice was seized by Customs and later distributed without permission from the supposed owner, who was said to have used traditional means to curse those who consumed it.
The Customs Service responded by stating that there is no truth in the reports.
According to them, no poisoned rice was seized or released by the command.
They explained that all seized items, including rice, go through proper procedures before being disposed of.
These steps, they said, are carried out in line with legal processes and the rules guiding the agency’s operations.
Officials further stated that there had been no reports of death or illness traced to any rice linked to the Seme Command.
They accused those spreading the story of trying to mislead the public and damage the image of security agencies.
The command described the entire narrative as a made-up story meant to stir panic and misinform people.
The Customs Service called on Nigerians to ignore the false reports and avoid sharing unverified information that can create fear.
It added that the command remains focused on its duties, which include stopping smuggling, boosting revenue, and supporting legal trade activities.
The leadership of the Seme Command said it will continue to carry out its responsibilities with honesty and according to the law.
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