The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has refuted claims that it is being used to traffic drugs, saying it has never and will never be involved in any illegal transport of narcotics.
The agency’s response comes after a recent online publication accused NIPOST of being linked to drug smuggling.
In a statement released on Sunday, July 6, in Abuja, NIPOST’s Director of Corporate Communications, Franklin Alao, described the allegations as completely false. “There is no iota of truth in the allegation,” Alao said.
He explained that NIPOST works hand-in-hand with major security agencies such as the NDLEA, the Nigeria Police, and Customs to monitor logistics channels and prevent criminal activity.
“NIPOST works closely with security agencies and logistics stakeholders, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Customs Service to deter illicit use of logistics channels,” he said.
Alao also warned that any courier company caught aiding criminal acts would face serious consequences.
“Any operator found to be involved in criminal activity will face immediate regulatory sanctions. This includes licence suspension or revocation and reporting the operator to appropriate authorities for prosecution,” he said.
The clarification follows growing concerns over the activities of unregistered courier services.
Just days earlier, Oludotun Sounde, NIPOST’s General Manager for Courier and Logistics Regulation in Ondo State, raised the alarm about the unchecked operations of unauthorised logistics firms.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Akure, Sounde said these illegal operators not only undermine the economy but also pose a real threat to national security.
READ ALSO: Drama as new NIPOST CEO defies aggrieved workers, assumes duty
He described NIPOST as a critical part of Nigeria’s communication infrastructure and warned that these rogue couriers must be tackled.
In his statement, Alao urged the public to ignore the false accusations and stick to using licensed delivery services. He also appealed to Nigerians to report any suspicious activity.
“We encourage members of the public to report any suspicious activities to NIPOST or law enforcement agencies,” he said.
Alao called on media houses and civil society groups to help raise awareness and promote accountability.
“We also call on the media and civil society organisations (CSOs) to effectively discharge their roles in shaping public opinion and driving positive change,” he added.
He noted that NIPOST’s advanced tracking systems make it difficult for illegal activities to go unnoticed.
“NIPOST’s robust digital infrastructure, including the Digital Postcode and Parcel Identification System, ensures full traceability of parcels from sender to recipient,” he said.
“These tools enhance screening capabilities and deter ‘anonymous’ individuals, who are usually exploited in illicit parcel transport.”
NIPOST is now urging Nigerians to stay informed, choose only approved courier services, and support efforts to secure the country’s logistics networks.