Customs Initiates Investigation Into Contrasting Videos Involving Personnel, Clearing Agents
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched an investigation into two separate but contrasting videos involving an officer of the Service and clearing officers, and which have since gone viral.
The Service’s spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, in a statement on Monday said the Customs Police Unit has been saddled to review the videos, interrogate the officer in question as well as engaged relevant stakeholders associated with these incidents, with a view to ensuring impartiality and thoroughness.
It was gathered that in the first video shot at Car Park C Terminal under the Tincan Island Port Area Command, captures an incident in which the officer was subjected to what seems like an embarrassment and hostility. In contrast, the second video shows a contrasting scenario in which agents warmly received the same officer.
“It is pertinent to note that the NCS takes these incidents very seriously”, Maiwada stated, adding that the Service in line with the NCS Act 2023 Section 30, upholds its commitment to a transparent and accountable process.
He reiterated that any individual found to be in contravention of NCS regulations—including clearing agents, officers, or other involved parties—will be held accountable under the law and appropriate measures pursued to serve as a deterrent.
“The NCS management, under the leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, wishes to assure the general public, stakeholders, and the business community that appropriate action will be taken in response to the investigation’s findings. He urges all parties operating within the port community to conduct their activities responsibly and in line with the principles of respect and professionalism”, the statement said.
