In a startling incident that occurred on July 13, Jabiru Tsauri, the Chief of Staff to the Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, narrowly escaped an attack allegedly perpetrated by suspected Customs personnel. The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has promptly launched an investigation into the matter, with tensions running high and questions surrounding the motives behind the assault.
The targeted attack on Tsauri took place as he was leaving Katsina State, en route to Kaduna and eventually to Abuja. The specific location of the incident was identified as Gorar Yammama. Reports indicate that while traveling with his driver, Tsauri encountered a recent accident on the Gorar Yammama highway, leading to traffic congestion. As their vehicle was finally freed from the accident site, armed assailants reportedly opened fire on the car, aiming at its tires and body in an apparent attempt to harm the government official. Thanks to the quick thinking and bravery of his driver, they managed to escape to safety in a nearby town.
In response to the alarming incident, Governor Radda has vehemently condemned the attack and demanded a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served. He emphasized the paramount importance of safeguarding the safety and security of public officials and citizens, stressing that any violation of this fundamental right would not be tolerated.
Katsina Customs spokesman, Tahir Balarabe, expressed sympathy for the victim and the Katsina State Government in a statement released on Sunday. He described the incident as unfortunate and acknowledged that a comprehensive investigation is currently underway to ascertain both the immediate and remote causes of the attack. Balarabe assured the public that anyone found responsible for the assault would face the full force of the law.
“At the moment, a full investigation is ongoing to unravel the immediate and remote course of the incident, anyone found wanting will be made to face the full wrath of the law,” he stated.
“As a reputable organisation, NCS frowns at any form of unprofessionalism on the part of its officers.
“Our officers are well-trained in handling firearms and are expected to act by the rules of engagement spelt out in our book of instructions.
“We assure all well-meaning Nigerians, especially the good people and the government of Katsina State to go about their legitimate activities as the service will only sustain its onslaught against economic saboteurs and their accomplices while collecting maximum revenue that will be utilise for national development.”
While the Nigeria Customs Service maintains its commitment to professionalism and adherence to rules of engagement, the organization has faced controversies in the past. Writers and journalists have shed light on alleged extortion of vehicle owners by customs officers. Moreover, reports in 2015 highlighted cases of some customs officers being dismissed from service for offenses such as rape and other crimes. These revelations have contributed to a growing perception of corruption within the Nigerian Customs Service.
The incident involving the governor’s Chief of Staff has added fuel to the controversy surrounding the agency’s conduct. Some commentators have raised concerns about the possibility of criminals impersonating customs officers to carry out such attacks, while others point to deeper issues of corruption and lack of accountability within the organization.
As the investigation progresses, it is crucial to remain vigilant and await the official findings. Federal Character News will continue to provide comprehensive coverage of the developments as they unfold. The safety and security of both officials and citizens must remain a top priority, and any acts of violence or corruption must be thoroughly addressed to ensure a just and secure society.
