Sesi Whingan Denies Petrol Smuggling Allegations, Advocates for Community Welfare
Sesi Whingan, Badagry Federal Constituency representative, denies petrol smuggling allegations and defends his role in promoting transparency in customs operations. He addresses the economic impact of smuggling on local communities and encourages critical scrutiny of the claims.
Sesi Whingan, the member representing Badagry Federal Constituency in Lagos State, has strongly rejected allegations linking him to petrol smuggling activities to the neighboring countries of Ghana and Togo. This denial was issued through a press statement by his Senior Legislative Aide, Faruk Tunga, which aims to clarify the situation following the emergence of a video on social media accusing Whingan of smuggling due to purported support from the National Security Adviser.
In the statement, Tunga emphasized that Whingan has neither participated in nor endorsed any illegal activities. His only connection to the issue is his role in presenting a petition before the House of Representatives. This petition, submitted by the Lagos State Youth Frontiers for the Advancement of Peace and Democracy, seeks to investigate the adverse effects of smuggling on legal trade and the welfare of border communities along the Seme corridor.
Recognizing the negative impacts of illegal trade, Whingan moved a motion for a thorough investigation into the Nigerian Customs Service, including the Comptroller General and other officials, to promote transparency and restore public trust. The lawmaker has witnessed the economic difficulties faced by his constituents and understands how essential legitimate cross-border trade is to their livelihoods.
The closure of the Nigeria-Benin border since August 2019 has severely hindered commerce, pushing local communities into poverty. Ironically, while legitimate trade is hindered, illicit smuggling routes have flourished, allegedly involving individuals linked to senior Customs officials. Investigative reports have pointed to the influence of certain individuals who intimidate Customs officers and worsen unemployment.
Tunga underscored that the smear campaign against Whingan stems from vested interests and challenged those making these claims to provide credible evidence. He conveyed confidence in Whingan’s commitment to elevating the lives of Badagry residents, particularly the youth, and expressed that the attacks would ultimately be ineffective. He urged all stakeholders to engage critically with these allegations and focus on constructive, evidence-based policy-making to benefit Nigerian citizens.
As an outspoken advocate for reform, Whingan aims to initiate investigations that hold accountable those truly responsible for any malfeasance, hoping this statement will help mitigate the spread of misinformation prevalent on social media and other platforms.
In summary, Sesi Whingan has officially denied allegations of involvement in petrol smuggling to Ghana and Togo, asserting his commitment to legitimate trade and community welfare. The press statement issued by Faruk Tunga highlights Whingan’s advocacy for transparency and accountability regarding customs operations, while also emphasizing the detrimental impact of smuggling on local economies. Whingan calls for scrutiny of false claims and promotes constructive dialogue aimed at benefiting Nigerian citizens.
Original Source: punchng.com
