In a significant development, the Customs Area Controller of Tin Can Island Port Command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi, has reaffirmed the uncompromising stance of the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, against corruption.
Nnadi made this declaration while officially handing over $54,330, which was offered as a bribe, to the Lagos Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Michael Wetkas.
The alarming discovery came to light when a consignment of Tramadol was falsely declared as electrical appliances, with a stated value of over N856 million, and a substantial sum of cash was offered to compromise Customs officers.
Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, the Controller highlighted that this act flagrantly violates Section 233 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCAA) 2023. He commended the officers who demonstrated unwavering commitment to ethical conduct and adherence to the law in the interest of national security.
Furthermore, Nnadi urged all port users to consistently adhere to compliance measures, underscoring that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in collaboration with sister agencies like EFCC, will persist in thwarting criminal activities within the port.
Expressing his gratitude, Nnadi commended Comptroller Oloyede, under whose leadership the seizure was executed, and lauded him as a model example within the NCS.
Providing insight into the ongoing investigation, he revealed that the two suspects apprehended in connection with the two containers are currently under scrutiny by the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for potential prosecution.
Upon receiving the confiscated bribe money, Wetkas lauded the accomplishment as a victory for the country and all the security agencies involved. He specifically celebrated the unwavering dedication of the NCS officers who achieved this feat.
Wetkas also commended the Comptroller General for extending a letter of commendation in appreciation of the six Customs officers who resisted pressure and inducement from the owners of the illicit drugs.
Assuring continued collaboration, he pledged ongoing partnership between the EFCC, NCS and sister agencies, further emphasising that the era of operating in isolation is now obsolete.
