- Charges FOU ‘A’ officers to be cautious when handling weapons
The Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Customs and Excise has conveyed its empathy towards the officers and personnel of the Nigeria Customs Service Federal Operations Unit for the injuries and fatalities they have endured over the years due to confrontations with smugglers while performing their mandated duties.
Headed by Chairman Senator Francis Ade Fadahunsi MFR, the Senate Ad-hoc Committee delved into the inquiries prompted by submissions before the Senate concerning the alleged tensions between Customs operatives and inhabitants of border communities. On the 23rd of August, 2023, the Committee visited the Unit situated in Ikeja, Lagos State.
The Committee encouraged the officers to foster productive dialogues and awareness initiatives within the communities to ensure harmonious coexistence. Senator Fadahunsi, the Chairman, directed the officers to adhere rigorously to the Rules of Engagement and the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), while also exercising prudence in the use of weaponry.
He further remarked, “Given the current circumstances, we will relay your challenges, struggles, and proposed way forward to the higher authorities.”
During the presentation of his findings, Acting Comptroller DC Hussein Ejibunu highlighted that in 2021, three officers lost their lives at the hands of smugglers, and eleven officers sustained injuries. He pointed out that the officers under his supervision consistently prioritize minimal use of force during seizure operations to prevent casualties.
Ejibunu stated, “Since assuming responsibility for this unit, there have been no reported cases of accidental weapon discharges. Presently, our team of officers is undergoing comprehensive training in proper firearms handling techniques.”
Regarding community awareness efforts, DC Ejibunu mentioned, “Upon my appointment in 2021, I engaged with all traditional leaders and visited every border community. I undertook awareness campaigns, enlisted the assistance of local youths for intelligence gathering, and occasionally provided incentives within our capabilities.”
“We have also collaborated with media outlets to host programs that enlighten the residents of border communities about our non-adversarial stance. Thus far, we have achieved noteworthy success in fostering positive relationships with the border communities,” Ejibunu added.
