Ogun Socialite In Customs net over alleged rice smuggling

ABIOLA Seun |

Popular Nigerian socialite, Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, a.k.a IBD Dende has been arrested by the Nigerian Customs Service over allegations of smuggling.

Dende is currently in the custody of the Nigeria Customs Service Abuja for alleged massive smuggling in Ogun state.

The businessman, who is also a hotelier and big socialite is said to be in a hot romance with a popular Yoruba actress. Though Dende is married, the actress, whose husband has claimed she didn’t leave him, is the apple of Dende’s eye.

Meanwhile, sources disclosed that he is being quizzed over his alleged involvement in series of smuggling in the South-West.

According to sources, IBD Dende was initially invited to the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) of the Service in Ikeja, Lagos, last week.

The 47-year old Ilaro, Ogun State-born businessman, was subsequently moved to the headquarters in Abuja.

Confirming the development to journalists, the Customs Public Relations Officer (PRO), Joseph Attah, was quoted as saying “It’s true. Egungbohun is our suspect and he’s currently in our custody over his smuggling activities.”

Meanwhile, members of Ogun State Youth Agenda, under the leadership of Comrade Rasheed Aroboto on Sunday, has appealed to Governor Amosun to step in and assist his citizen on his present predicament.

Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun was rumoured to be invited by the CG, Nigeria Custom service.

However, the Coordinator of OSYA has explained to the Ogun State government what he said many people failed to know about the suspect.

“IBD Dende has on several occasions intervened to stop the lynching of custom officers who due to accidental discharge and uncontrollable circumstances, claimed lives of Yewa citizens.

“IBD Dende has on several occasions assisted the government in providing basic amenities for his community ranging from filling of pot-holes to construction of pipe borne water, drainage and many more.

“There was a time when citizens nearly poured acid on Alhaji Dende for taking sides with officers of the Nigeria Custom Service during heated argument.

“Dende has on several occasions, mended the gap between the government and Youths across Yewaland, he has been seen as lover of youths and law abiding citizen of the country

“Alhaji Dende, through his foundation has sponsored numerous Footballers outside the country to achieve their dream and has also been the sole sponsor of Juvenile FC till date

“Conclusively, as we move closer to 2019 general elections, with you having Ogun west in mind, Alhaji Dende is an asset who is needed in actualizing the Ogun west ambition under your indomitable leadership sir, and his role as a stakeholder who is in support of the ruling party is essential sir.”