A heartbreaking wildlife crime has been uncovered at the Seme Border, where a brave interception by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) revealed a shocking attempt to smuggle an endangered lion cub and two patas monkeys. This incident sheds light on the dark reality of the illegal wildlife trade, a global crisis that threatens the very existence of some of our planet’s most precious creatures.
The story begins with a routine stop-and-search operation along the Badagry-Seme Expressway on a fateful Sunday morning. Little did the operatives know that they were about to uncover a crime that would spark international attention. Upon inspecting a blue Mazda vehicle, they made a chilling discovery: a lion cub and two patas monkeys, all crammed into the vehicle, their lives at risk.
This interception is not just a simple case of animal smuggling. It’s a violation of national and international laws, and a direct threat to the survival of these magnificent species. The suspects, Mr. Mathew Kofi and Mr. Nasiru Usman Gwandu, claimed ownership of the animals, but their story raises more questions than it answers. Where did they source these animals? And why were they transporting them to the Benin Republic?
But here’s where it gets controversial… Nigeria, as a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), has a legal obligation to protect these creatures. Yet, the statement issued by the NCS’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Isah Sulaiman, suggests that the suspects were merely detained for further investigation, with the animals confiscated and brought to the Command for documentation.
And this is the part most people miss… While the animals were later handed over to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative for expert care, the fate of the suspects remains unclear. Will they face the full force of the law, or will this incident simply fade into obscurity?
The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Adewale Adenuga, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to wildlife protection and environmental conservation. But words are not enough. It’s time for action. The NCS must collaborate closely with relevant agencies to ensure that these suspects face justice and that the illegal trade in endangered species is stamped out once and for all.
This story is a stark reminder of the urgent need for global action to protect our wildlife. It’s time to stand up and speak out against those who would exploit and endanger our planet’s most vulnerable creatures. Will you join the fight? The future of these species depends on it.