The member representing Badagry Federal Constituency, Lagos State at the National Assembly, Sesi Whingan, has debunked rumours making the rounds of his involvement in the smuggling of Premium Motor Spirit, also known as petrol from Badagry to the neighbouring countries of Ghana and Togo.
This was contained in a press statement made available to our correspondent in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital on Saturday by his Senior Legislative Aide, Faruk Tunga.
The statement noted that in recent days, a video had circulated on social media alleging that Whingan was involved in fuel smuggling from Badagry in Lagos State to Ghana and Togo, adding that certain individuals also accused the House of Representatives member of operating with impunity because he has the support of the National Security Adviser.
Refuting the allegations on behalf of his principal, Tunga said Whingan has never participated in, nor endorsed any smuggling activities, noting that his only involvement in the matter was his role in reading and laying before the House of Representatives, a petition authored by the Lagos State Youth Frontiers for the Advancement of Peace and Democracy, which aims to investigate the detrimental impacts of smuggling on legitimate trade and the livelihoods of border communities, particularly along the Seme corridor.
He narrated that recognising the far-reaching consequences of illicit trade, the lawmaker responsibly moved a motion calling for a comprehensive probe into the operations of the Nigerian Customs Service, including its Comptroller General and other key officials, explaining that the motion was crafted solely to enhance transparency, restore public trust, and secure the economic and social well-being of Nigeria.
“As a son of the soil and by privilege, a representative of a border community, Hon. Whingan has witnessed firsthand the economic struggles of his constituents, especially the youths. Many of whom have historically relied on cross-border trade for their livelihoods.
“Badagry, a historic border town, has long served as a gateway for legitimate commerce between Nigeria and its neighbours. However, the prolonged closure of the Nigeria–Benin border, particularly along the Seme-Badagry corridor since August 2019, has severely disrupted this economic lifeline, plunging our communities into poverty and depriving our youths of vital opportunities.
“While legitimate trade has been criminalised, an illicit smuggling route through Oja-Odan in Ogun State continues to thrive, allegedly operated by individuals with ties to top-ranking Nigeria Customs Service officials. Reports by Independent investigative bodies have exposed how powerful figures, including one identified as IBD Dende, resort to violence and intimidation against customs officers, further undermining border security and exacerbating youth unemployment and poverty.
“I know that this smear campaign is driven by a few individuals working for specific personal or group interests. For posterity, I challenge the fabricators of this campaign to present verifiable proof of these unfounded claims. We are fully aware of their gimmicks and ill motives, as well as those sponsoring these attacks.
“However, let it be known that Hon. Sesi Whingan’s God is not a sleeping God; all their evil plans directed against our focused, dogged, and goal-oriented member will undoubtedly end in futility. Hon. Sesi Whingan remains undeterred in his quest to champion policies that will improve the welfare of the people of Badagry, especially its youth and ensure a safer, more prosperous Badagry nation,” the statement read in part.
Tunga further urged stakeholders, the media, and the public to scrutinise these allegations critically and remain focused on constructive dialogue and evidence-based policy-making that would benefit all Nigerians.
While noting that Whingan is a steadfast advocate for reform, and one who is dedicated to initiating investigative processes that will hold those truly responsible accountable, the Tunga hoped that the rejoinder would dispel the misinformation making the rounds on social media and other media platforms.
