The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Ogun State has urged President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government to reopen land borders in the state.
According to NANS, the closure of land borders by the Buhari government since almost two years ago had exceeded its relevance.
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Buhari had re-opened the land border at Seme, Illela, Maigatari, and Mfun, but remained silent on that of Ogun.
The land borders were closed to goods in August 2019, with partial openings and closings for people prompted by the coronavirus pandemic throughout 2020.
The students body regretted that the negative effects of the closure were showing in the economy and living conditions of Ogun residents.
A statement by the Chairman of NANS in the State, Damilola Simeon, explained that the increase in smuggling activities in the Gateway State could be traced to border closure.
“We urge the Federal Government to reconsider the closure of Ogun State land borders. The closure has exceeded its relevance and the negative effects are showing in the economy and living conditions of the good people of Ogun State.
The NANS and other students unions in Ogun State said they had met with the Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Area Command, Peter Kolo, on September 6 over claims of illegal arms importation through Ogun borders.