By Sandra Chukwunyere
The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has accused Officers of the Zone 2 Police Headquarters in Onikan, Lagos, of incessant and indiscriminate interception and arrest of containers at the Lagos ports.
In a petition addressed to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Maritime Police Headquarters, NAGAFF alleges that its members are being routinely harassed and extorted by these officers, disrupting the smooth clearance of goods and causing significant economic losses.
The association claims that Zone 2 officers are acting outside their jurisdiction by intercepting and arresting containers that have already been duly processed and cleared by the Nigerian Customs Service and other relevant agencies.
NAGAFF further alleges that its members are being forced to pay up to 1,000,000.00 (One million naira), approximately $690, to secure the release of their containers. These actions, they say, are impeding the timely clearance of containers, leading to delays, increased costs, and potential revenue loss for the government.
NAGAFF has threatened to organize a protest and potentially shut down the seaports if the issue is not addressed promptly. The association is calling for the Assistant Inspector-General of Police to intervene and put an end to the activities of the Zone 2 officers, urging collaboration with the AIG of Zone 2 to find a swift resolution. NAGAFF also reminds the police of a supposed existing circular that restricts police departments other than the Maritime Police from interfering in maritime-related matters.
The ongoing dispute is creating a tense atmosphere at the Lagos ports, with freight forwarders fearing further disruptions to their businesses. The situation also raises concerns about the potential impact on government revenue and the overall efficiency of the ports.
This is contained in a statement signed by the NAGAFF, National Cordinator 100% Compliance Team, Alhaji Ibrahim Tanko.
