By: Joy Enamuna

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has addressed a media claim made by Mr. Olukayode David-Albert, a 70-year-old U.S. returnee, who alleged that customs officers demanded ₦76 million to clear his two vehicles and personal belongings.

In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, Ngozi Okwara, the NCS categorically rejected the accusation, stating, “It is disheartening that Mr. David-Albert has resorted to making unsubstantiated claims in the media rather than complying with established procedures. At no point did any officer of the Tin Can Island Port Command request ₦76 million as alleged.”

The Customs Service further urged David-Albert to provide evidence of the alleged misconduct, inviting him to identify the officers involved so that appropriate action could be taken.

The NCS clarified that while Nigerian citizens returning after residing outside the country for at least nine months are eligible to bring in personal belongings duty-free under the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET) 2022-2026, vehicles are excluded from this provision unless they are intended for personal use, not for sale or exchange.

As such, while David-Albert’s personal belongings may be exempt from duties, the two vehicles he sought to import—specifically a luxury 2024 Hyundai SUV—are subject to duty payments. The calculated import duty for the vehicles amounted to ₦34,969,374.00, far below the ₦53.5 million that David-Albert claimed was demanded as a “compromise.”

The Command reminded the public that the primary responsibility of Customs is to facilitate the clearance of legitimate goods, with all individuals required to meet statutory requirements for duty payments. The NCS also highlighted that similar regulations are enforced in countries where David-Albert had previously resided, where attempts to bypass the process would not be tolerated.

The Tin Can Island Port Command reiterated its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and fairness, stating that it would continue to uphold the law and support legitimate trade while rejecting any attempts to circumvent due process.