The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has refuted a ₦76 million bribery allegation made by a 70-year-old US returnee, Mr. Olukayode David-Albert, regarding the clearance of his vehicles and personal belongings.
In a statement released on Tuesday by the Public Relations Officer of the Tincan Island Port Command, SC Ngozi Okwara, the NCS labeled the claims as false and misleading.
The Command’s attention was drawn to an online publication alleging frustration over a ₦76 million bribe demand. This allegation is untrue and does not align with our operations, the statement read.
According to the NCS, the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET) 2022–2026 allows duty-free importation of personal belongings for Nigerians residing abroad for at least nine months, but this exemption excludes vehicles. The luxury 2024 Hyundai SUV and another vehicle in Mr. David-Albert’s consignment are subject to duty.
The appropriate duty value for the vehicles was determined to be ₦34,969,374.00, far less than the ₦53.5 million alleged as a compromise amount.
The NCS urged Mr. David-Albert to provide evidence of misconduct if his claims are valid. If there is proof of wrongdoing, he should identify the officer involved for necessary action, Okwara stated.
The Command reiterated its commitment to transparency and fairness, emphasizing that trade facilitation remains its statutory mandate.
The NCS will continue to enforce the law without fear or favor, while supporting legitimate trade. Similar regulations apply in advanced countries where Mr. David-Albert resided, and attempts to bypass due process would not be tolerated there, the statement concluded.