The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tincan Island Port Command, has denied claims of extortion made by a 70-year-old US returnee, Olukayode David-Albert.
The US-returnee had alleged that officials demanded ₦76 million to clear his vehicles and personal belongings.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, by its Public Relations Officer, SC Ngozi Okwara, the Command clarified that while Nigerian citizens returning after at least nine months abroad can import personal belongings duty-free, this exemption does not apply to vehicles.
Quoting the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET) 2022–2026, the statement explained, “Goods classified as ‘baggage’ may be brought in duty-free, but vehicles and items for sale, barter, or exchange are explicitly excluded.”
According to the Command, the two vehicles—a 2024 Hyundai SUV and another unspecified car—attracted a combined duty of ₦34,969,374, well below the ₦53.5 million allegedly cited as a “compromise” amount.
The statement strongly denied any demand for ₦76 million, urging David-Albert to provide evidence if any officer solicited such a sum. “If Mr. David-Albert has proof, he should identify the officer for appropriate action,” it added.
The Tincan Island Port Command reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and adherence to customs regulations, assuring the public of its dedication to fair and lawful trade practices.
