Fact Check: Nigerian Customs Is Auctioning Seized Cars and Goods On WhatsApp
🔎 🔎 The Claim
A viral claim circulating on WhatsApp, Facebook, and other social media platforms suggests that:
“Nigerian Customs is auctioning seized cars and goods to the public at very cheap prices.”
Many of these posts are accompanied by images of luxury vehicles, containers, and warehouses filled with goods. They often include phone numbers, links, or instructions urging Nigerians to “apply now,” “secure a slot,” or contact a supposed Customs officer to participate in the auction.
The claim has gained significant traction, especially among Nigerians looking for affordable cars and discounted imported goods. With the rising cost of living, such offers appear attractive and believable to many.
⚡ Quick Summary
Claim: Nigerian Customs is auctioning seized cars and goods
Verdict: ⚠️ Misleading
Source(s): Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), official auction portal, independent fact-check reports
đź“Š What We Found
After reviewing official information and verified reports, TheNaijaPost found that while the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) does conduct auctions of seized or overtime goods, most viral claims suggesting that auctions are currently ongoing are misleading or entirely false.
There is no verified evidence of an ongoing nationwide public auction as widely promoted on social media. Instead, many of these posts originate from unofficial sources and are often linked to fraudulent schemes.
🧾 The Evidence
To verify this claim, we reviewed official platforms and credible sources.
The Nigeria Customs Service operates an official e-auction system where seized or overtime goods may be sold to the public under strict guidelines. These auctions are conducted through designated government portals and are announced publicly when available.
However, checks on the official auction platform show that there is no ongoing auction at the moment, contradicting the widespread claims online.
Additionally, the Nigeria Customs Service has repeatedly issued warnings to the public about fraudulent messages and fake auction offers. According to official statements:
- The NCS does not sell items through WhatsApp, social media messages, or private contacts
- Payments are never made into personal bank accounts
- All legitimate auctions are conducted through verified government channels
Independent fact-checking organizations have also confirmed that many viral posts about “cheap Customs cars” are scams designed to deceive unsuspecting individuals.
While it is true that auctions do happen from time to time—particularly for overtime cargo or seized goods—they are not constant and are only available when officially announced.
🧠Context & Analysis
This claim is best understood as a mix of truth and misinformation.
On one hand, the Nigeria Customs Service has the legal authority to auction certain categories of goods. These include:
- Seized contraband
- Overtime cargo that has not been cleared
- Items forfeited to the government
However, scammers exploit this legitimate process by spreading false or exaggerated claims online.
Many viral posts create the impression that:
- Auctions are currently ongoing nationwide
- Vehicles are being sold at extremely low “giveaway” prices
- Anyone can easily participate by contacting an individual
These claims are misleading and often designed to lure victims.
In reality, legitimate auctions follow a structured and transparent process. Participants are typically required to:
- Register with valid identification, including a Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Bid through an official government platform
- Follow clearly defined rules and procedures
There are no shortcuts, and certainly no informal WhatsApp-based access.
The popularity of these scams is driven by several factors, including economic hardship, high demand for affordable vehicles, and the rapid spread of information on social media. Many people, eager to find cheaper alternatives, may overlook warning signs and fall victim to fraudsters.
đź“Ś Verdict
⚠️ MISLEADING
While Nigerian Customs does auction seized goods, there is no confirmed ongoing public auction as widely claimed, and many viral posts are scams.
📢 Why This Matters
Misinformation like this can lead to serious financial losses. Many Nigerians have been scammed after making payments to individuals posing as Customs officers or agents.
Verifying such claims through official government platforms is essential to avoid fraud and protect personal finances.
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