Customs,Importers rancor: Tincan PRO clears the air …Importers allege duplication of functions …Customs Call for proof

Customs,Importers rancor: Tincan PRO clears the air

.Importers allege duplication of functions

.Customs Call for proof

By Udeme Clement

As the rancor between importers and the Customs Area Controller, CAC, Tincan Island Port Command of Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Comptroller Musa MBA deepens, the Public Relations Officer, PRO, of Tincan Command, Mr. Uche Ejesieme has said that the CAC operates an open-door policy, that importers and agents can walk to his office on any issue bothering on highhandedness and be sure to get expeditious attention.

The issue is that, importers, as well as clearing agents doing business at Tincan port, have expressed displeasure about the administration of the current CAC of Tincan, on what they described as, administrative bottlenecks on cargo clearance procedures.

While some importers complained about allege duplication of functions, slowing down cargo clearance at Tincan Port, others said the administration of the current CAC is not enhancing trade facilitation in line with the ease of doing business policy of government, but rather impeding the entire process and creating unnecessary barriers on the clearing chain.

Speaking further, the PRO pointed out, “This impression is quite erroneous. First and foremost, let me appreciate those who have penchant for compliance with the extant laws of the federation.

“It may interest you to know that those in that category are actually at home with the administrative policies of the CAC. It will also interest you further to know that the CAC operates an open-door policy, meaning that, you can walk to his office for any issue bothering on highhandedness and be sure to get expeditious attention.

“He has demystified the office and always willing to render guidance and counseling when necessary. It is not enough to castigate without proof. Otherwise, we will be wallowing in self pity.

“We challenge anybody with proof as alleged to come up with any declaration that he feels is unduly handled.

“What I understand is that, some of us misconstrue firmness to highhandedness and may I implore us to imbibe compliance and see if we are recalcitrant.

“Don’t forget that, he who goes to equity must do so with clean hands. The task of protecting our esteemed values in terms of trade is a shared responsibility”.