Joseph Bakare
The Nigeria Customs Service, Tincan Island Port Command, has dismissed allegations of extortion made by a 70-year-old United States returnee, Olukayode David-Albert.
David-Albert had claimed that Customs officials demanded N76 million to clear his two vehicles and personal belongings.
In a press statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, SC Ngozi Okwara, on Tuesday 31 December 2024, the Command explained that while Nigerian citizens who have resided outside Nigeria for at least nine months are eligible to import their personal belongings duty-free, this exemption does not extend to vehicles.
The statement read, “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.”
“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”, the statement emphasised.
The Command further clarified that the duty value for the two vehicles was determined to be N34,969,374.00, significantly less than the N53.5 million allegedly demanded as a “compromise” amount in the publication.
“The Command categorically states that at no point did any officer of the Tincan Island Port Command request for N76 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.”
The Command reiterated its commitment to transparency and professionalism in its operations while emphasising the importance of complying with established customs regulations.
“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”, the statement concluded.