House Committee On Public Petitions Summons NPA, TICT, Shippers Council Over Alleged Economic Sabotage and Extortion

House Committee On Public Petitions Summons NPA, TICT, Shippers Council Over Alleged Economic Sabotage and Extortion

Media Unit, 

Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency

In response to a petition filed by Chief Ifeanyi Ezenwabachili against several government agencies, including the Nigeria Port Authority (NPA) and Tincan Island Container Terminal (TICT), the Federal House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions has taken action. The petition alleges economic sabotage, extortion, indiscriminate charges, illegality, harassment, intimidation, and threats to livelihood by certain foreign entities operating under TICT.

The first hearing of this case took place on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at room 429 (New Wing) of the House of Representatives in Abuja. Chief Ifeanyi Ezenwabachili was present to testify, detailing instances of intimidation, harassment, and extortion by authorities at Tincan Island.

Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba MHR, Chairman of the House Committee on Public Petitions, expressed concern over the reported ill-treatment and emphasized the need for accountability. He mandated the management of Nigeria Customs Service, NPA, Ministry of Blue Marine, TICT, and Shippers Council of Nigeria to appear before the Committee on March 5, 2024, to provide explanations.

The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rights of Nigerian citizens and ensuring fair hearings. It pledged to thoroughly investigate all cases brought before it, aiming to promote equity, fairness, and justice in Nigeria.