In a statement released by Abdullahi Maiwada, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Saturday, it was announced that the ongoing e-auction of 462 impounded vehicles has yielded approximately ₦556.74 million.
Maiwada addressed speculations suggesting the allocation of 300 vehicles to a single entity, clarifying that such claims were unfounded.
The statement revealed that after five successful bidding windows, a total of 13,605 applicants registered on the NCS e-auction portal. Out of the 476 impounded vehicles uploaded to the portal, 462 were successfully won by applicants.
Maiwada emphasized the transparency of the process, stating that the revenue generated, amounting to ₦556,738,736, underscores the integrity of the e-auction system. He refuted allegations of impropriety by the Customs Auction Committee and dismissed rumors regarding plans to dispose of overtime containers.
Expressing dismay at the accusations tarnishing the integrity of the e-auction process, Maiwada reiterated the NCS’s commitment to upholding accountability and adherence to established guidelines. He firmly denied any involvement in fraudulent activities, asserting that the NCS Auction Committee operates within legal boundaries.
The statement rebutted claims of vehicles being monopolized by a single individual and debunked assertions regarding nominal duty fees, labeling such allegations as baseless and misleading.