Tincan Customs Denies Demanding N76M From US Returnee To Clear His Two Vehicles, Personal Belongings

Tincan Customs denies claims it demanded N76M from US returnee to clear his two vehicles, personal belongings.

The Command clarified that the duty value for his two vehicles was N34.9M and not N53.5M allegedly demanded.

Noting that his personal belongings were duty-free, the Command stated that at no point did any of its officials requested for N76M.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tincan Island Port Command, has denied claims by a 70-year-old United States returnee, Olukayode David-Albert, that its officials demanded N76
million from him to clear his two vehicles and personal belongings.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday 31 December 2024, the Command stated that at no point did any of its officials requested for N76 million as alleged by the returnee, noting that his personal belongings were also duty-free.

The statement 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.”

“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 statement emphasised.

The Command further clarified that the duty value for the two vehicles was determined to be N34,969,374.00, significantly less than the N53.5 million allegedly demanded as a “compromise” amount in the publication.

“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.”

The Command reiterated its commitment to transparency and professionalism in its operations while emphasising the importance of complying with established customs regulations.

“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”, the statement concluded.

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