In a shocking revelation, Ibrahim Egungbohun Dende, also known as IBD Dende, believed to be one of the top smuggling kingpins in southwestern Nigeria, has been accused of issuing threats against a Assistant Director General of Customs (ASC) foiled his attempt to smuggle goods from Benin Republic into Nigeria.
Reports from the FIJ indicate that the incident occurred in January, before the publication of an undercover investigation that exposed systemic corruption within the Nigeria Customs Services (NCS), referring to high-ranking officials who support smuggling activities.
Dende, whose alleged involvement in the smuggling operation has drawn attention, has vehemently denied any complicity in such activities. However, a video obtained by the FIJ contradicts his denial, showing Dende making threatening remarks to a Customs officer identified only as Rotimi, who intercepted the contraband rice trucks.
In the footage, Dende is seen repeatedly swearing at Rotimi while brandishing a weapon. Despite his aggressive attitude, the Customs officers attempt to calm him down.
Sources familiar with the situation confirmed that the armed individuals accompanying Dende in the video were his accomplices. Furthermore, Dende’s reference to contacts with individuals within the NCS hierarchy, including Auditor General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and Auditor General Hussein Ejibunu, further corroborates the FIJ’s earlier investigation, which alleged collusion between smugglers and senior Customs officials.
Dende’s criticism in the video also extended to accusing Customs officers of abetting smuggling, saying he witnessed their superiors transporting rice across the border.
These developments underscore the widespread nature of smuggling activities and raise serious questions about the integrity of law enforcement agencies tasked with combating illicit activities along Nigeria’s borders. As authorities investigate this alarming incident, concerns remain about the endemic corruption that facilitates the trafficking of illicit goods across national borders.
