Nipost Denies Drug Trafficking Allegations, Assures Full Parcel Traceability

The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has firmly denied reports linking it to drug trafficking, insisting that it plays no role in the illegal movement of narcotics through its network.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, NIPOST’s Director of Corporate Communications, Franklin Alao, described the allegation as completely unfounded.

“There is no iota of truth in the allegation,” Alao said.

He explained that NIPOST maintains strong collaboration with relevant security and regulatory agencies to prevent any misuse of its services.

“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.

The agency warned that any logistics operator involved in criminal activity would be dealt with swiftly.

“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,” Alao added.

The clarification follows recent comments by the General Manager of NIPOST Courier and Logistics Regulatory Department in Ondo State, Oludotun Sounde, who raised concerns about the illegal operations of unlicensed courier firms in the country. Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Akure, Sounde described NIPOST as a national infrastructure that supports secure communication and community connectivity.

He warned that the unchecked activities of unauthorized logistics operators posed serious risks to the country’s security and economy.

In his statement, Alao urged members of the public to disregard the false claims and rely only on licensed courier services.

“We encourage members of the public to report any suspicious activities to NIPOST or law enforcement agencies.

We also call on the media and civil society organisations (CSOs) to effectively discharge their roles in shaping public opinion and driving positive change.”

Alao further emphasized the strength of NIPOST’s digital systems in tracking every parcel handled.

“NIPOST’s robust digital infrastructure, including the Digital Postcode and Parcel Identification System, ensures full traceability of parcels from sender to recipient.

These tools enhance screening capabilities and deter ‘anonymous’ individuals, who are usually exploited in illicit parcel transport,” he said.