The Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has refuted an allegation of extortion made by a US returnee that its officers demanded ₦76 million from him to clear some goods he brought into the country.
The American returnee, 70-year-old Olukayode David-Albert, had in an online publication, alleged frustration over the sum of ₦76 million purportedly demanded to clear his two vehicles and personal belongings.
The Public Relations Officer of the Command, Superintendent of Customs, Ngozi Okwara has described the claim as misleading.
Okwara in a statement made available to Thelensng explained that the Command considers it necessary to address these claims and provide the public with factual clarity regarding the situation.
The statement partly 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. Consequently, while Mr. David-Albert is eligible to import his personal belongings duty-free, 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. 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”.
According to the Command, David-Albert resorted to making unsubstantiated claims in the media rather than complying with established procedures.
It categorically stated that at no point did any officer of the Tin Can Island Port Command request for ₦76 million as alleged.
The Command encouraged the complainant to come forward and identify the said officer for further necessary action if he has evidence of such misconduct.
“The Command further wishes to remind the public that one of the core roles of the Service is to facilitate the clearance of legitimate goods.
“However, the onus remains on Mr David 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 statement added.
The Nigeria Customs Service noted that it remains committed to upholding transparency, professionalism, and fairness in its operations.
The Tin Can Island Port Command said it will continue to enforce the law without fear or favour, while supporting legitimate trade.
