FG Bows To Pressure, Cancels New Regime On Vehicles Imports

The Abuja Division of the Federal High Court, Friday, denied bail to Dr. Mohammed Nazeef Yunus, a lecturer at the Kogi State University, accused of being the spiritual leader of a Boko Haram cell situated at Igala land in Kogi State.

The Federal Government dumped the new tariffs for vehicles importation, ordered the Nigeria Customs Service (NSC) to revert to the old ones.

The decision has been made due to pressure and protest by clearing agents, as they refused to clear any auto import at the new duty and levy rates. It came into force from March 7, 2014, and will last till July 2014.

As part of the country’s National Automotive Policy, the Federal Government in November 2013 raised duty and levies on imported cars by 50% from 20% to discourage importation of cars.

The duty on buses was also raised by 10%.

With the implementation of the new regime, car importers are to pay up to 70% of cost of the car.

Under the old regime, a Toyota Camry 2002 model can be cleared for about N280,000. The cost went up to N840,000 under the new regime.

The NCS began enforcement of the new rates, but clearing agents at Lagos ports went into protest and withdrew their services from the port. They also warned about a strike, if the FG rejected their terms.

It has been learnt that clearing agents and importers welcomed the decision of the Federal Government and would now go back to the ports.