Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kehinde Akintola
Published on 2024-03-26 20:22:02
The Save Humanity Advocacy Centre (SHAC) has raised concerns about the activities of unregistered dockworkers operating foreign vessels at Ibeto Jetty and Rivers Port. The Centre’s Executive Director of Media, Comrade Jacob Okpanachi, highlighted the need for the Federal Government to investigate these allegations of fraudulent and illegal operations at the Ports.
During a press conference in Abuja, Okpanachi emphasized the impact of these activities on the country’s revenue. The Center has received numerous petitions regarding the illegal labor operations at Ibeto Jetty, which have resulted in the diversion of government revenues worth billions of naira. Legitimate registered dockworkers have also been deprived of their wages due to these operations.
The situation at Rivers Port, under the supervision of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), has raised concerns among stakeholders. Okpanachi expressed disappointment in the NPA for turning a blind eye to the alleged illegal activities taking place at the Port. The Center has received complaints from concerned Nigerians, highlighting the need for a thorough investigation into these operations.
According to Okpanachi, the approval granted to Ibeto Jetty to operate as a port was based on erroneous advice from former Port Manager, Mr. Adamu Michael, and former Executive Director of Marine and Operations, Onari Brown. The decision to allow unregistered dockworkers to handle foreign vessels at a private Jetty has resulted in the underpayment of government fees and the under-declaration of tonnage.
The diversion of government revenues, amounting to billions of naira, has raised serious concerns about the integrity of the operations at the Ports. Okpanachi pointed out that the CEO of Ibeto is already facing a fraud case at the Lagos Federal High Court, adding to the urgency of the situation.
The Center is calling on the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Chief Adegboyega Oyetola, to investigate the activities at Ibeto Jetty and Rivers Port. This investigation is crucial to ensure a level playing field for all players in the maritime industry and to uphold the rule of law.
In conclusion, Okpanachi urged the government to take action against the illegal labor operations at the Ports to protect the revenues of the country and ensure fair treatment of dockworkers. The need for transparency and accountability in the maritime industry is essential to prevent further losses and uphold the integrity of the sector.
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