Controversies trail Customs seizure of guns at Onne Port as suspect’s family alleges cover-up

The recent seizure of 844 guns at Onne Port in Rivers State has ignited a storm of controversies, with allegations of a cover-up and selective justice swirling around the Nigeria Customs Service.
The guns discovered within a shipment handled by Max Logistics, were recovered at the premises of the private terminal operator at the port, prompting questions about how such a significant cache of firearms could slip through customs clearance unnoticed.
Mr. Maxwell Orogodo, the manager of Max Logistics, finds himself at the center of this unfolding drama. His family alleges that he has been unfairly targeted while those higher-up evade accountability. According to a relative of Orogodo, who spoke to TVN on condition of anonymity, the sequence of events leading to Orogodo’s detention raises serious concerns about procedural integrity within the Customs Service.
“When the cargo arrived about three weeks ago, there was no indication of firearms during the initial inspection,” Orogodo’s relative stated. “Customs cleared the container, believing it contained iron doors and furniture. It was only later, during a subsequent inspection, that the guns were discovered at Max Logistics private terminal.”
The family contends that Orogodo cooperated fully with authorities once the firearms were found, facilitating inspections and providing access as required. However, instead of being treated as a cooperative party aiding the investigation, Orogodo was reported detained while his employer, Mr. Ajala Ojo Wahab, the CEO of Max Logistics, remained allegedly free.
“It’s clear there was a breakdown somewhere,” Orogodo’s nephew continued. “The guns didn’t magically appear at the private terminal. They passed through customs inspection at the port. The question is, who cleared the container? Who were the customs officers involved?”
The family alleges that Wahab’s influence shielded him from detention, despite his company’s central role in the incident. They claim the Customs even had the audacity to task Wahab with tracking down the importer of the firearms, a duty they argue falls outside his purview
“Mr. Wahab acts with impunity,” Orogodo’s nephew asserted. “He ignored pleas from my the family and his lawyer, refusing to engage with them while Orogodo languished in custody. This selective justice reeks of corruption and favoritism.”
Further complicating matters, the family revealed that Orogodo was abruptly transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) without notification to his lawyer or family. Attempts to visit him have been repeatedly denied, raising concerns about his welfare and legal rights.
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“We don’t even know if he’s eating or how he’s faring,” Orogodo’s relative lamented. “Meanwhile, those truly responsible seem to be evading justice.”
According to him, Wahab, facilitated the release of the two other employees of Max Logistics who were arrested alongside Orogodo because he did not want to incur the wrath of the local people.
He further revealed that the family learnt that one of the importers had been apprehended and moved to Abuja. He, however, alleged that a powerful individual from Anambra State is trying to secure his release.
The family’s frustration is palpable as they struggle to understand why Orogodo, a mere employee, faces prolonged detention while those in positions of power walk free. They question the motive behind keeping Orogodo isolated, and voice suspicions that a few customs officials may be protecting their own interests.
“We demand transparency,” Orogodo’s relative insisted. “If customs officers were involved in clearing the guns, they must be held accountable. Mr. Wahab cannot escape scrutiny simply because of his wealth and connections.”
As the investigation unfolds, with the suspects now reportedly transferred to Abuja, Orogodo’s family remains steadfast in their pursuit of justice. They hope that shedding light on these alleged improprieties will lead to a fair resolution and accountability for all involved parties.
Calls to Mr Wahab’s known phone number went unanswered while WhatsApp messages sent to him were not responded to.
Efforts to also get reactions from the Nigeria Customs Service were unsuccessful.
The unfolding saga at Onne Port serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing regulatory oversight and judicial fairness in Nigeria, where the influence of wealth and power often casts a shadow over the pursuit of justice.
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