The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority, in collaboration with multiple security agencies, has carried out a clearance operation targeting illegal fuel merchants at the Toll Gate along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
The operation, announced on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, led to the seizure of several litres of illegally stored petroleum products.
The joint exercise was coordinated by the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters, CP Sunday Odukoya; the Executive Adviser on Rule of Law Enforcement, CP Sonubi Ayodele Olufemi; the Chairman of the Environmental Task Force, DCP Francis Ojomo; and the Chief of Staff to the OYRLEA Chairperson, Iyabode Akinbode.
“The operation was aimed at curbing illegal trading of petroleum products and ensuring public safety along major highways,” Oyelade said.
During the exercise, dozens of litres of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) and diesel were discovered in 25-litre kegs and large drums, alongside empty barrels and containers used for illegal storage and sale. The seized products were impounded, and the empty containers destroyed on site.
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Odukoya and Sonubi condemned the illegal fuel activities, stressing that the Oyo State government would not tolerate practices that threaten public safety and the environment. Owners of the impounded items were directed to report to OYRLEA within seven days for proper documentation or risk forfeiture to the state government.
The statement noted that the suspected operators were not present during the operation and emphasized that enforcement efforts would continue to prevent such activities. Residents were urged to avoid illegal fuel trading and report suspicious activities to authorities.
The clearance involved personnel from the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority, Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun Corps, Nigeria Police Force, the Oyo State Environmental Task Force, and the Nigerian Army.