Licensed customs agents operating at Onne Port in Rivers State are urging the federal government to crack down on illicit activities taking place at the port. They allege that bonded warehouse owners in the area, in collaboration with some Nigeria Customs Service officials, are engaging in illegal practices that undermine fair trade and government revenue.
Speaking to reporters recently, Nelson Ejiofor, a licensed customs agent, expressed deep concern over the situation. He emphasized that bonded warehouse owners are employing tactics like using second-hand spare parts to evade proper import duties, thus gaining unfair advantage over legitimate agents.
Ejiofor stated, “The activities of these bonded warehouse owners are crippling our businesses. They exploit loopholes in the system by under-declaring goods and using deceptive methods. This not only affects our client relationships but also harms the government’s revenue collection.”
Echoing Ejiofor’s sentiments, Chukwudi Okereke, another licensed agent, highlighted the financial impact on their operations. He recounted instances where clients opt for cheaper clearance options facilitated by bonded warehouses, leaving legitimate agents at a disadvantage.
“It’s disheartening to lose clients because of discrepancies in clearance costs,” Okereke said. “We operate within the law, but some warehouse owners cut corners, using inferior parts to cut costs illegally. This undermines our credibility and livelihoods.”
The agents are calling on regulatory authorities to investigate these allegations promptly and enforce stringent measures to curb such fraudulent practices at Onne Port. They argue that without decisive action, the integrity of import processes and the financial health of legitimate businesses will continue to suffer.
In response to the agents’ concerns, a representative from the Nigeria Customs Service assured that the agency takes these allegations seriously and is committed to upholding transparency and fairness in all port operations.
“We are aware of the reported malpractices at Onne Port and are actively investigating these claims,” the representative stated. “Our priority is to maintain a level playing field for all stakeholders and ensure that import duties are paid correctly, in accordance with the law.”
Furthermore, industry experts have weighed in on the broader implications of such illegal activities. Dr. Grace Udo, an economist specializing in trade policies, emphasized that customs fraud not only distorts market dynamics but also undermines national economic stability.
“Customs fraud leads to revenue loss for the government, which could otherwise be invested in critical infrastructure and social programs,” Dr. Udo explained. “It also erodes trust in regulatory bodies and discourages foreign investors looking for transparent and efficient trade environments.”
To address these challenges comprehensively, stakeholders are advocating for enhanced collaboration between regulatory agencies, law enforcement, and industry players. They propose measures such as stricter auditing of bonded warehouses, improved training for customs officials, and increased penalties for offenders.
In a public statement, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Finance acknowledged the gravity of the situation and pledged governmental support for implementing necessary reforms.
“We are committed to fostering a competitive and ethical business environment,” the spokesperson affirmed. “The Ministry is working closely with relevant agencies to strengthen oversight mechanisms and ensure compliance with international trade standards.”
