By Staff Reporter
Abeokuta, Ogun State — The National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS) has strongly condemned the violent attack on officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, during a lawful anti-smuggling operation in Imeko-Afon Local Government Area of the state, describing the incident as a direct threat to public safety and national development.
In a statement issued by its National President, Aàrẹ Oluwafemi Ajayi (FM Castro), NAOSS decried the assault as reckless, unacceptable, and an affront to the collective future of the country, particularly the well-being of youths and students.
According to reports, armed suspects disrupted a Customs operation targeting the inflow of illicit drugs, endangering the lives of officers and civilians alike. The association noted that such criminal acts not only undermine the authority of law enforcement agencies but also fuel insecurity, destroy lives, and pose grave public health risks.
“An attack on officers carrying out their lawful duties is an attack on our collective future,” NAOSS stated. “Drug trafficking and smuggling corrode the moral and social fabric of our communities, with young people bearing the brunt of the damage.”
NAOSS expressed deep sympathy with the injured officers and their families, wishing them a speedy and full recovery. The association also commended the courage, professionalism, and resilience of the affected personnel, describing their service as vital to the protection of communities and the nation’s borders.
The students’ body issued a stern warning to drug traffickers and their collaborators, urging them to desist from criminal activities or face the full weight of the law. It reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly the Ogun I Area Command under the leadership of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni.
NAOSS praised Deputy Comptroller Afeni for his consistent advocacy for community partnership and vigilance, noting that his leadership reflects a shared commitment to border security, youth protection, and public well-being.
Calling for collective action, Aàrẹ Ajayi urged students, youths, traditional rulers, and community leaders to rise against drug trafficking and all forms of smuggling. He emphasized that national development requires active citizenship, cooperation with security agencies, and the rejection of actions that sabotage communal progress.
The association further encouraged members of the public to provide timely information, raise alarms when necessary, and support the Nigeria Customs Service in the discharge of its statutory responsibilities.
Recalling a recent engagement between NAOSS and the Ogun I Area Command, the association noted that Deputy Comptroller Afeni had earlier raised concerns over the alarming inflow of illicit drugs into the state. NAOSS pledged to amplify this warning and mobilize students across Ogun State to become part of the solution.
In conclusion, NAOSS reiterated its solidarity with the Nigeria Customs Service and reaffirmed its resolve to champion a safer, healthier, and more prosperous Ogun State.
Signed:
Aàrẹ Oluwafemi Ajayi (FM Castro)
National President,
National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS)
