The House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise have lamented the negligence of key government agency leaders who have refused to attend an investigative hearing on critical national matters.
The hearing was scheduled to examine the concession of the e-customs project to the Trade Modernisation Project (TMP) and Webb Fontaine’s involvement in the framework.
This was however overshadowed by the absence of the Comptroller General of Customs, the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, and other key stakeholders.
Lawmakers reminded the absentees of Section 88 of the Nigerian Constitution, which grants parliament the authority to summon individuals for explanations.
The investigation also sought to address the use of modern technology to secure Nigeria’s borders, curb illegal migration, and improve border management.
While the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, was reportedly out of the country, no explanation was provided for the absence of the Customs and Immigration chiefs.
Their failure to attend drew sharp criticism from lawmakers, with Olumide Osoba (APC, Ogun) highlighting that only the heads of these agencies could adequately address the committee’s inquiries.
Awaji-Inombek Abiante (PDP, Rivers) called the no-show an affront to parliament, suggesting that persistent noncompliance should result in the officials being recommended for removal.
Abiante stated that their failure to respond to the parliamentary invitation suggests they are either no longer committed to their roles or incapable of fulfilling their responsibilities.
Committee Chairman Leke Abejide (ADC, Kogi) emphasized the significance of the investigation, noting its focus on enhancing government revenue through customs modernization and improving national security.
Despite the lawmakers’ tight schedules, Abejide expressed disappointment that the session had to be postponed. He announced that the hearing would resume after the passage of the national budget, ensuring the presence of the agency heads.
The investigation seeks to scrutinize the concession granted to Trade Modernisation Project (TMP), assess the role of Webb Fontaine in the e-customs system, and evaluate TMP’s performance, including the introduction of modern scanners to facilitate faster clearance of goods.
Lawmakers are also examining the goals which the TMP’s selection process is intended to meet.
