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The Nigeria Customs Service, Tin Can Island Port Command, has clarified that its enforcement action against the vessel MT NY Maria was lawful, after the ship was found discharging Premium Motor Spirit without requisite clearance at the MRS Terminal, Dantata Jetty.
In a statement issued Thursday, 28 May 2026, the Command said officers of the Boarding and Rummaging Unit boarded the vessel on 23 May upon arrival from the Dangote Refinery to conduct routine compliance checks. They discovered the vessel lacked a mandatory Last Port Clearance from the port of origin.
Chief Superintendent of Customs Oscar Ivara, the Command’s PRO, said the agent was given a two-day window to provide the document while the vessel was lawfully sealed and placed under Customs control. “In line with established procedures, officers granted the vessel’s agent a two-day period to provide the outstanding document,” the statement noted.
Despite the directive, Customs said it received intelligence on 27 May that the vessel had commenced discharge while still under seal. Officers who mobilised to the terminal reportedly encountered resistance from facility security before gaining access. The ship master was ordered to stop the unauthorised discharge and report to the Enforcement Unit. The vessel was subsequently resealed. The Command stressed the master was not arrested, only invited for statements.
Explaining the legal basis, Customs cited Sections 30–35 of the NCS Act 2023, which empower officers to board, inspect, detain, and enforce compliance within Customs Control Zones. It added that the discharge violated Sections 46–58 covering reporting obligations, goods declaration, and release of goods under Customs control.
“The Service will continue to discharge its statutory responsibilities professionally, transparently, and without fear or favour in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic and national security interests,” the statement concluded. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
