Customs Boss Orders Immediate Seizure of Improperly Documented Cargoes

By ZION Olalekan

Following an increase in the level of discrepancies in importers’ names and other information provided on clearance documents, the Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, Col. Hameed Ali (Rtd) has ordered seizure of cargoes with such discrepancies.

In a circular that was circulated and obtained by Nigerianmaritime360.com the customs boss directed all Area Controllers to suspend the release forthwith till further notice, any cargoes with discrepancies in their documentation.

Ali also directed that all Area Commands should profile all Single Goods Declaration (SGD) form with names of the importer, Exporter and Forms ‘M’ number on the Bill of Lading and Manifest different from that on the PAAR.

The circular was issued on 31st of December 2018 with reference number NCS/ENF/ABJ/058S.23, signed by Deputy Comptroller General in charge of Enforcement and Investigation, DCG Chidi. A.

Also in a separate circular with reference; NCS/T&T/I&E/017/VOL.XV dated 4th of January 2019, the CG lamented that there has been an increase in the level of discrepancies in information provided by importers on the three clearing documents.

He directed all consignees of cargoes to henceforth make sure that there are no discrepancies on consignee’s name on Pre Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) Single Goods Declaration (SGD) form and Bill of lading.

The circular was signed by Deputy Comptroller General of Customs in charge of Tariff and Trade, Isa Mairo Talatu.

“The CGC has observed with dismay and great concern increasing cases of discrepancies on consignee’s name on the PAAR, SGD and Bill of lading despite three previous circulars to that effect as indicated above.

“Consequently, the Comptroller-General of Customs has directed once more that: the consignee’s name, quantity and description of goods on the PAAR must tally with the one on the SGD and Bill of lading or Airway bills.

“Manifest amendment must strictly be done in accordance with the extant guidelines.

“Any observed discrepancy must be referred to the CAC, who will direct 100% inspection and seek for further directives from DCG (T& T). Note: This reminder supersedes the three (3) previous circulars. Ensure strict and immediate” it read in part.