May 12, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel Report
Former Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, has reportedly been arrested over allegations linking him to the creation of an illegal entry point along the Nigeria–Benin Republic border used for large-scale smuggling operations.
According to security and Customs sources, the arrest was carried out by operatives connected to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in February 2026, following intelligence suggesting the existence of an unauthorized border gate allegedly used to facilitate the movement of contraband into Nigeria.
Investigations claim that a section of the international border fence was allegedly breached and replaced with an iron gate, creating a secret corridor through which vehicles, rice, and other prohibited goods were reportedly smuggled into the country.
Sources further alleged that the operation enabled the movement of over 10,000 vehicles, including both new and used SUVs, alongside large quantities of foreign rice and other restricted goods.
Video evidence reportedly obtained from the scene showed vehicles positioned around a gate structure believed to have been used for the illegal crossings, while another footage indicated that the area was later sealed with concrete blocks after the operation was exposed.
A senior source alleged that the illegal gate was installed overnight within a few hours, close to the Seme Customs command office, and was actively used for smuggling before security attention was drawn to it.
The operation was allegedly overseen by an individual identified as a known smuggler operating within the Seme axis, with claims that Customs officials at the command were aware of the activities.
Sources also alleged that during interrogation, Adenuga claimed the operation had knowledge or backing from higher Customs authorities, including zonal and national levels, although this claim has not been independently verified.
Following the controversy, Adenuga was redeployed by the Nigeria Customs Service in March 2026 from Seme Command to the Customs Headquarters in Abuja, where he was assigned to the Human Resources Development department. However, reports suggest he has not fully resumed duties at his new posting due to ongoing investigations.
The Nigeria Customs Service has confirmed his redeployment but declined to comment on allegations of illegal smuggling operations, describing the movement as part of routine administrative reshuffling within the service.
As of press time, neither the Office of the National Security Adviser nor the Nigeria Customs Service has issued a detailed statement addressing the arrest or the specific allegations surrounding the alleged illegal border gate.
