The Nigeria customs Service, NCS, has issued a statement in reaction to two viral videos which trended on the social media, involving one of its officers and clearing agents at the Car Park C Terminal, Tin can Island Port Area Command.
The first video depicts a scenario where the officer appears to face embarrassment and hostility, while the second video shows a contrasting situation, where the same officer is warmly received by the agents.
The NCS National Public Relations Officer, Abdullah Maiwada, in a statement indicated that the Service has taken cognizant of the videos and the issues and launched an investigation to fully understand the circumstances surrounding both videos. To ensure an impartial and thorough inquiry, the Customs Police Unit will review the footage, collect statements from the officer involved, and engage with relevant stakeholders connected to the incidents.
Wada’s statement reads:
“The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is aware of two separate videos circulating on social media involving one of its officers and clearing agents at Car Park C Terminal under the Tin can Island Port Area Command. The first video captures an incident in which the officer was subjected to what seems like an embarrassment and hostility. In contrast, the second 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. Following standard protocol, the service has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding both videos. To ensure impartiality and thoroughness, the Customs Police Unit has been saddled to review the videos, gather statements from the officer in question, and engage relevant stakeholders associated with these incidents.
“In line with the NCS Act 2023 Section 30, the NCS upholds its commitment to a transparent and accountable process. It is important to note 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 NCS is committed to creating a safe and conducive environment for legitimate trade and commerce to thrive across all its formations.
Credible News recalls that last week a female customs officer, who had risen to the rank of Assistant Commissioner, faced an unusual farewell on what was believed to be her final day at work.
As she made her way down the staircase to leave her office at Car Park C, Tin Can Port in Lagos, dock and port workers gathered outside, chanting “ole (thief).” Some held placards, while others raised their fists in the air, screaming “ole.” The chants continued even after she had left the premises.
However, merely two days after her sudden retirement, the officer returned to her position on Saturday, October 26. This time, the atmosphere was notably different, with colleagues cheering and celebrating her return, contrasting sharply with the earlier hostility.
Reports indicate that the presidency intervened, ordering her reinstatement and praising her as a “no-nonsense leader.” It seems her strict adherence to regulations may have contributed to the negative send-off she received on her last day, prompting her recall to continue her duties.
Credible News.ng
