Tin-Can Island Customs Debunks N76m Bribe Allegation From Vehicle Importer

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Tincan Island Port (TCIP) Command, has dismissed allegations that it demanded N76million bribe from Olukayode David-Albert, insisting that it only demanded legitimate customs duty of about N34.9million.
NATIONAL ECONOMY reports that a 70-year-old US returnee, David-Albert, alleging frustration over the sum of N76 million purportedly demanded to clear his two vehicles and personal belongings.
However, in a press statement by the customs public relations officer, Ngozi Okwara, said the American returnees comment were untrue.
Okwara said the command considered it necessary to address the claims and provide the public with factual clarity regarding the situation.
“In 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 per cent, a levy of 20 per cent, and a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 7.5 per cent, in compliance with Nigeria’s customs regulations. The Command determined the appropriate duty value for the two vehicles to be N34,969,374.00. This value is significantly less than the N53.5 million alleged as a compromise amount in the publication,” he noted.
While expressing dissatisfaction at Mr. David-Albert’s claims in the media, the customs command admonished him to rather comply with established procedures.
“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,” it said.
While reassuring the public that trade facilitation is sacrosanct at the command as one the core roles of the Service is to facilitate the clearance of legitimate goods, it maintained that the onus is on Mr. David-Albert 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 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,” it stated.