Alhaji Ibrahim Tanko, National Coordinator, 100%Compliance Team of NAGAFF
The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has issued a statement declaring corruption as the primary cause of unrest in Nigeria.
In a press release signed by the Head of Compliance Team NAGAFF, Alhaji Tanko Ibrahim highlighted the pressing need for Nigerians to respect the rule of law and called for a collective effort to combat corruption within the maritime trade and transportation sector.
Alhaji Ibrahim emphasized that the issue transcends the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the state governments, pointing out that it is up to the Nigerian people to respect and obey the rule of law and societal order. He stressed that continuing to foster corruption and neglecting education would be akin to building a castle on shifting sand.
The release calls on individuals in the maritime sector to reject corrupt practices and adhere to import and export regulations. Alhaji Ibrahim clarified that government agency heads assigned to ports and borders have not instructed their officers to extort money from Nigerians conducting business at the ports. Instead, officers are tasked with ensuring compliance with government regulations.
Alhaji Ibrahim expressed disappointment at the neglect of government interests and the lack of enforcement of law and order by some government agents, highlighting the need for a collective effort to combat corruption. He affirmed NAGAFF’s commitment to assisting the federal government, Nigeria Customs Service, and Nigeria Police in ensuring best practices at customs ports and border stations.
The release specifically draws attention to a corrupt officer at the Maritime Police Command in Obalande, Lagos. Alhaji Ibrahim called for an investigation by the Inspector General of Police and DIG Finance, stating that NAGAFF is prepared to provide material evidence of the officer’s misconduct. He noted that despite numerous warnings from higher authorities, the officer continues to act with impunity, undermining efforts to maintain order at the ports.
NAGAFF has pledged to identify and expose corrupt officers within various government agencies at entry points, aiming to support the federal government’s efforts to revive hope and stability in Nigeria. Alhaji Ibrahim urged the Inspector General of Police to reach out to NAGAFF headquarters in Apapa, Lagos, for further collaboration and investigation.
The press release was distributed to key government officials, including the Senate President, Chief of Staff to the President, Secretary of the Federal Government of Nigeria, Comptroller General of Customs, and the Inspector General of Police.
