Reps, CWC, Vow to Unearth illegal detention of shipment, extortion, unfair practices, tax evasion by Foreign Companies

Reps, CWC, Vow to Unearth illegal detention of shipment, extortion, unfair practices, tax evasion by Foreign Companies

Committee on Public Petition House of Representatives whose mandate is to provide a platform for citizens to voice their grievances and seek redress, organised a public hearing at the National Assembly Complex Abuja today

The hearing which was organized by Public Petition Committee was aimed at unraveling the petition written by Citizens Whistleblowers Coalition (CWC) against Mediterranean Shipping Company Nig. LTD and Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A, Geneva for delay in delivery of the shipment arbitrary, inconsistent and opaque charges, illegal detention of shipment, extortion, unfair practices and tax evasion.

Speaking with Journalists on the significance of the meeting, Hon. Barr. Uzoma Abonta, lead lawyer to CWC said foreigners in Nigeria must abide by Nigerian laws and ease of doing business. He frowned at the level of impunity by these foreigners who neglect Nigerian laws thereby imposing UK law on Nigerian business men.

Noting that the meeting is crucial for the interest of the public. According to him we want them to come here and defend themselves. Marine sector is very important sector. Two consecutive times the companies ignored the invitation by the Committee.

Hon Barr Abonta, said the Committee in its wisdom will employ legislative mechanism to ensure they comply.

In his contribution, Karl Chinedu Uchegbe, from Citizens Whistleblowers Coalition said the petition is based on unfair business practices by International Shipping Company in Nigeria. this includes: illegal detention service, demurrege charges, container deposit, which importers are forced to pay for, also delay delivery of goods.