A Nigerian citizen has called on the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) to investigate alleged unwarranted hoarding and delay of cleared goods by CMA CGM Shipping Agency at Apapa, Lagos.
In a petition marked “Matter of Urgent Public Importance,” Prince Alli O. Adewale, described as a deeply affected citizen, urged the NSC to intervene against the shipping company, accusing it of withholding consignments even after full compliance with customs clearance procedures.
The petitioner stated that CMA CGM Shipping Agency, located at No. 2 Wharf Road, Apapa, has repeatedly refused to release goods that have been cleared by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at Lagos Tincan Island, despite payment of all shipping fees, terminal charges, and statutory dues.
Adewale highlighted a recent troubling case involving auctioned goods under container No. CRXU9760002, Reference No. NCS/ADM/MGT/012/A.121A/C dated August 15, 2025, assigned to Awazi Brothers.
According to the petition, the consignments have remained unlawfully withheld by CMA CGM Shipping Agency despite fulfillment of all obligations.
“The economic and human consequences of this practice are severe,” the petition stated.
“Many affected individuals are forced to borrow at exploitative interest rates to clear their goods, only to face further delays and mounting financial pressure.”
Adewale urged the NSC, as Nigeria’s principal regulatory authority for shipping operations, to exercise its statutory powers to restore transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the sector.
He emphasized that the intervention is critical not just for individual stakeholders, but also for the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy.
The petitioner described the alleged conduct as “oppressive” and “inimical to the principles of fairness, ease of doing business, and economic sustainability” promoted by the Federal Government.
The NSC is yet to issue a statement on the matter, but observers say decisive action is essential to protect innocent Nigerians from avoidable hardship and ensure compliance within the shipping industry.
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