By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service did not ask for a bribe of N76m in a business transaction between her and Olukayode David-Albert, a returnee from the US. What it demanded was the legitimate customs duty of about N34.9m.
This clarification is contained in a release by the Command’s image maker, Superintendent of Customs Ngozi Okwara. It has become necessary following a misleading online publication by a 70-year-old US returnee, David-Albert, alleging frustration over the sum of ₦76 million he said was allegedly demanded to clear his two vehicles and personal belongings.
According to the Command, it has become necessary to address these claims in order to avail the public with facts on the issue.
“In line with the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET), 2022–2026, Schedule 2 No. 8 (3), it is expressly stated that goods classified as “baggage” for Nigerian citizens who have resided outside Nigeria for at least nine months may be brought in duty-free. However, this provision explicitly excludes vehicles or goods intended for sale, barter, or exchange.“
While Mr. David-Albert is eligible to import his personal belongings duty-free, the release stated, the two vehicles in his consignment are not exempted from duty payments.
“Specifically, the luxurious 2024 Hyundai SUV attracts an Import Duty rate of 20%, a levy of 20%, and a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 7.5%, in compliance with Nigeria’s customs regulations. Therefore, the Command determined the appropriate duty value for the two vehicles to be ₦34,969,374.00. This value is significantly less than the ₦53.5 million alleged as a “compromise” amount in the publication.”
While expressing concerns that Mr. David-Albert chose the media to make spurious claims, the Customs Command advised him to follow due process and comply with established procedures.
“The Command categorically states that at no point did any officer of the Tincan Island Port Command requested for ₦76 million as alleged. If Mr. David-Albert has evidence of such misconduct, he is encouraged to come forward and identify the said officer for further necessary action,” it said.
While reassuring the public that trade facilitation is sacrosanct at the Command, one of the core roles of the Service is to facilitate the clearance of legitimate goods. Therefore, the Customs says, the onus lies on Mr. David-Albert to meet the statutory requirements for duty payment.
“It is pertinent to note that similar regulations apply in advanced countries where Mr. David-Albert previously resided, and such behavior of attempting to circumvent due process would not be entertained there.
“The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to upholding transparency, professionalism, and fairness in its operations. The Tincan Island Port Command will continue to enforce the law without fear or favor while supporting legitimate trade,” it stated.
