The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), SEME Area Command, has dismissed widespread charges that seized and distributed bags of toxic rice that allegedly resulted in multiple deaths, including a soldier in Badagri, Lagos State.
In a statement issued by Customs Public Relations Officer Isah Sulaiman, the order called the claim “false, misleading and totally unfounded”. The virus reported that unknown owners were confiscated after putting traditional curse and later poisoned rice bags released by customs.
Sulaiman sees the story as a pure fabrication and points out that SEME Area Command follows the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) of the Nigerian Customs Services Department to handle and dispose of seized goods. He said the procedures are based on transparency, due process and legal compliance.
“The order hopes to make it clear that this narrative is completely wrong, misleading, and does not reflect the reality of the matter,” he said.
Suleiman also confirmed that no death was reported within the jurisdiction of the headquarters or between its personnel, which was related to the consumption of any distributed rice. He condemned the story’s initiators, accusing them of spreading false information under the pretense of journalism.
“Unfortunately, some of the immoral elements in news outfits chose to confuse the public with unfounded, fictional and malicious allegations,” he added.
SEME Command urges the public to ignore false reports and avoid sharing false information, which could lead to panic or damage the integrity of law enforcement agencies.
Under the leadership of Auditor General Dr. Ben Oramalugo, SEME Area Command Rece affirmed its commitment to revenue generation, combating smuggling and promoting legal trade, all in line with national policies and legal standards.
