Ag. CAC Oyo/Osun Command, Adewole, Seeks Traditional Backing, Visits Ooni, Ogunsua, Ataoja

The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Oyo/Osun Area Command, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Wale Adewole, has embarked on a series of courtesy visits to the palaces of the Ooni of Ife, the Ogunsua of Modakeke and the Ataoja of Osogbo, seeking stronger grassroots support for the Nigeria Customs Service’s operations.

The visits, held on Monday 23 February 2026, was part of the Ag. CAC’s efforts to strengthen Customs-Community relationship and reinforce collaboration between the Service and traditional institutions in curbing smuggling and promoting lawful trade.

Addressing the king at his palace, DC Adewole described the traditional institution as a pillar of cultural authority and community influence, adding, “We recognise the critical role traditional rulers play in shaping public behaviour and maintaining order.”

He said. “Our success in combating smuggling and facilitating legitimate trade depends largely on the cooperation of host communities.”

The Ag. CAC, however, appealed to the monarch to encourage residents to comply with Customs laws and support enforcement efforts through timely information sharing.

Responding, the Ooni commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its contribution to revenue generation and economic stability.

“The Service occupies a sensitive position in protecting our borders and our economy. You can count on the support of this palace and the people of Ile-Ife in ensuring that lawful trade thrives.” He said.

Meanwhile, at the palace of the Ogunsua of Modakeke, the Acting Controller reiterated the need for sustained community engagement, adding, “We cannot do this work alone. When communities provide information and discourage illegal activities, enforcement becomes more effective and less confrontational.”

The Ogunsua, in his remarks, praised the Service’s efforts and assured the delegation of cooperation, stressing that, “Our people understand the importance of lawful conduct. We will continue to work with security agencies to maintain peace and prevent criminal activities within our domain.”

Similarly, during the visit to the Ataoja of Osogbo, DC Adewole stressed that partnership with traditional institutions remains central to the Command’s strategy.

“Sustained collaboration with our royal fathers strengthens compliance and enhances national security. The Ataoja welcomed the initiative, describing it as a demonstration of respect for traditional authority. He added.

According to him, “When institutions engage with the community through its leaders, it builds trust. We will support all lawful efforts aimed at protecting the nation’s economy.”

DC Adewole explained that the visits were part of a deliberate approach to deepen stakeholder engagement across Oyo and Osun States.

He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to revenue generation, trade facilitation and suppression of smuggling, noting that enduring partnerships with traditional institutions would remain key to achieving these objectives.