The buzz created by the Senate’s call that the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, retired Col. Hameed Ali, should wear Customs uniform has taken a new twist.
Some maritime associations have reportedly taken stands on the matter, in support and against Ali.
Sources within the ports, told this magazine that, the call two days ago, by the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), threatening to sue Ali should he heed the senate’s call and wear uniform, was not binding on all maritime unions.
Recall that a lawyer had, before NAGAFF’s call, dragged the senate to court, challenging its powers over the matter.
While NAGAFF through its founder, Dr Boniface Aniebonam said the Customs CG was not a commissioned officer hence can’t assume the character of an officer of the service, citing Section 10 of Customs Excise and Management Act (CEMA) cap C 45 of 2004, the source representing the interest of other groups said that, it’s a moral issue.
“If Ali can head the Customs, take its salary, ride in its jet, ethics demand that he respects the service by being proud to wear its uniform, states the source who added that other groups that are opposed to NAGAFF’s intervention would make its positions known soon.
-Biodun Fariogun
