The National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA) has firmly distanced itself from a recent court judgment reportedly secured by Mr. Lucky Amiwero, which seeks to stop the ongoing collection of the Practitioners Operating Fee (POF) by the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN).
In a statement jointly signed by the Acting President, Chief Ifeanyi Anakweze, and Secretary General, Chief Festus Ukwu, the Council declared that Mr Lucky Amiwero no longer holds any leadership role in the association, having been suspended and removed as president years ago. As such, he has no legal authority to represent or act on behalf of NCMDLCA in any matter.
“Our attention has been drawn to a court ruling secured by ≅ against CRFFN’s collection of the POF. We wish to categorically state that Amiwero is not a member or leader of our association and cannot speak, act, or obtain any judgment on behalf of NCMDLCA,” the statement read.
Reaffirming its support for the CRFFN, the Council emphasized that the ongoing POF collection is a directive of the Federal Government backed by the CRFFN Act No. 16 of 2007, and is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic revitalization efforts.
The NCMDLCA maintained that all four associations accredited by CRFFN, including itself, are fully compliant with the POF policy and have continued to pay the fee without resistance.
“The POF is being collected peacefully across the country. Freight forwarders and clearing agents have not only complied but have also begun to enjoy the benefits through capacity-building programmes, professional trainings, and educational initiatives facilitated by CRFFN,” the statement noted.
The Council further urged stakeholders to disregard any claims or legal challenges initiated by Mr. Amiwero, describing them as personal and not reflective of the collective position of registered associations under CRFFN.
“We will not be part of any attempt to undermine the authority of the Federal Government. The POF collection is lawful, orderly, and has the full support of stakeholders in the freight forwarding industry,” the Council concluded.
