In a move aimed at curbing the illicit trade of petroleum products, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has auctioned 55,164 liters of seized petrol in Sokoto to the public at a token price of N180 per liter.

This development is part of the ongoing efforts by the NCS to combat smuggling and protect the nation's economic interests.

According to the Area Controller of the Sokoto/Zamfara Command, Kamal Muhammed, the auction is in compliance with existing laws and received approval from the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale.

Muhammed emphasized that the auction is a testament to the NCS's commitment to transparency and economic protection.

The seized petrol, valued at approximately N39 million in Duty Paid Value (DPV), was intercepted by operatives of Operation Whirlwind.

The intensified efforts against petroleum product smugglers have led to a significant increase in seizures, with the service making a total of 55,164 liters of PMS in the period under review.

The price disparity of petrol between Nigeria and neighboring West African countries has made smuggling highly profitable.

While PMS sells for an average of N701.99 per liter in Nigeria, it fetches N2,061.55 in Cameroon, N2,128.20 in Mali, and N1,672.05 in the Republic of Benin.

This price margin has led to a surge in smuggling, resulting in artificial scarcity in some regions of Nigeria and straining the country's foreign exchange reserves used for imports.

The Comptroller General of Customs has warned smugglers to desist from their illegal activities, stating that the NCS is determined to eliminate illegal activities detrimental to Nigeria's economic interests.

The auction in Sokoto serves as a stern message to smugglers, underscoring the NCS's resolve to protect the nation's economic interests.

This development is a significant step in the fight against smuggling and will help to reduce the economic burden caused by the illegal trade of petroleum products.

The NCS's efforts to combat smuggling and protect the nation's economic interests are commendable, and this auction serves as a testament to their commitment to transparency and economic protection.