Lagos Shippers Association Secretariat Project Runs Into Trouble

…As Stakeholder  Fault Claimants, Task NSC Board, Mgmt To Beware

BY KESIENNA SHEPHERDS

The proposed plan by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to build a Secretariat for the Shippers’ Association of Lagos State has sparked controversy, with allegations that the project is being driven by individuals who may not be legitimate shippers.

In a press release, factional president of the association, Barr. Leonard Ogamba, warned that the initiative could amount to misappropriation of funds. He argued that the money earmarked for the project, which is refunds from illegally collected storage charges and shipping lines agency commission (SLAC), was meant strictly for Nigerian shippers who had paid those charges.

“The idea of building a Secretariat is a ploy by those who are not parties to the contract to embezzle Nigerian shippers’ money,” Ogamba declared.

Ogamba emphasized that the court judgment clearly directed that the refunded money should serve the interests of Nigerian shippers. He questioned who qualifies as a “Nigerian shipper” and insisted that only those who actually paid the illegal charges should benefit.

According to him, the NSC must first convene a meeting to verify shippers who presented proof of payment. Only then, he said, can decisions be made on how the funds should be utilized.

“The Nigerian shipper that will benefit is that importer who paid the money being refunded pursuant to privity of contract,” he explained.

Ogamba recalled that in 2006, the NSC published notices inviting affected Nigerians to present evidence of payments. He claimed that only his company, LeoChuks Nigeria Limited, and Harlinks Nigeria Limited owned by Alhaji Nofiu, responded with valid proof.

He challenged the current leadership of the Shippers’ Association, including purported president Odolo Nicodemus, former president Jonathan Nicol, and trustees, to provide similar evidence of payment.

Ogamba urged the NSC board to exercise caution and avoid allowing non-shippers to dictate the use of the funds. He also reminded the council of the need to convene a meeting to discuss critical issues, including the long-delayed sensitization programme for the Cargo Defense Fund (CDF).