Babatunji Wusu –
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Suspect Arrested: A Nigerian, Bello Abubakar, was caught smuggling 346 exotic bird heads and other animal specimens from Cameroon into Nigeria.
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Seized Items: Customs officials recovered 213 parrot heads, 29 packs of parrot feathers, 128 African hornbill heads, and five eagle heads. Other seized items included one pack of eagle feathers, two chimpanzee heads, four chimpanzee hands, and four chimpanzee legs.
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Violation of International Laws: The suspect’s actions violate Nigeria’s customs laws and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
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Customs Warning: Officials warn that illegal wildlife trade threatens Nigeria’s biodiversity, fuels crime, and poses economic and security risks.
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Suspect’s Defense: Abubakar claimed he bought the items in an open market in Cameroon and intended to sell them in Nigeria.
Full Report:
The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has arrested a suspected wildlife trafficker in Cross River State, seizing 346 rare bird heads and other protected animal parts.
The suspect, Bello Abubakar, was apprehended by the Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone and Akwa Ibom Area Command on March 12, 2025, while attempting to enter Nigeria from Cameroon through the Mfun/Ekok Joint Border Station.
Speaking in Calabar on Monday, Customs Area Controller Comptroller Gabriel Ogbonna confirmed the arrest, stating that the seized items violated both Nigerian laws and international treaties protecting endangered species.
“During routine baggage inspections at the border, our officers intercepted a traveler carrying a large quantity of illegal wildlife products,” Ogbonna said.
“The individual was found with 213 parrot heads, 29 packs of parrot feathers, 128 African hornbill heads, five eagle heads, one pack of eagle feathers, two chimpanzee heads, four chimpanzee hands, and four chimpanzee legs.”
Ogbonna emphasized that the seizure is a breach of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) Act 2023, which prohibits the trade of endangered species without the required permits.
“Section 55 of the NCS Act 2023 strictly bans the import, export, or transit of endangered species without proper authorization,” he stated.
He further warned that wildlife trafficking contributes to biodiversity loss, criminal activities, and economic instability, urging stronger enforcement against smuggling.
Ogbonna also expressed gratitude to Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, for his leadership and support, while commending his officers for their vigilance.
Meanwhile, the suspect, Abubakar, claimed he purchased the items from an open market in Cameroon and planned to sell them in Nigeria.
Customs authorities have confirmed that further investigations are underway, and the suspect will face legal action in accordance with Nigerian and international wildlife protection laws.
