ABUJA: Hameed Ali, the comptroller general of Nigeria customs service has warned officers sternly that he would not condone any act of corrupt practise adding that erring officers would be dismissed and jailed.
The Nation reports that the customs boss gave this warning to officers in Calabar where he also told them that he had zero tolerance for indiscipline.
“I want to make it clear to all of you that I have zero tolerance for indiscipline and corruption. I will dismiss and jail any officer found guilty.
“Indiscipline will no longer have a place in the Nigeria Customs Service. We must have officers and men with impeccable characters to promote the image of the service.
Anyone caught falsifying any document or compromising with fake imported goods will also be dismissed and jailed.
“We have resolved that anyone caught in an unprofessional conduct, no matter the circumstances, will be dismissed and jailed for the offence.”
He said he was focused on reforming the service and that dismissing corrupt officers would be sending a strong message that reform was in operation.
“I am determined to undertake reforms and reconstruct the service to collect more revenue into the coffers of the Federal Government.
“We have been seen as the most indisciplined paramilitary organization because we have refused to obey the laws that govern us.
“Paramilitary is all about discipline and we must operate on that basis. We must also work in line with the law establishing the service’’, he said.
Ali added that the welfare of officers was important and that plans were on-going to provide accommodation.
“We are aware of the challenges of accommodation in your command. We will try our best to provide a better accommodation for you all.”
A month ago, it was reported that about 400 officers were sacked from the customs service. However, Ali denied that officers were sacked in the ongoing restructuring of the service.
