A civil society organisation, the Coalition Against Corruption and Social Vices (CACSV), has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged diversion of N36 billion at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) between June and December 2025.
In a petition dated February 2, 2026, and acknowledged by the anti-graft agency with reference number EFCC/PET/HQR/0598/2026, the group accused the Executive Secretary of the NSC, Mr. Pius G. Akutah; the Director of Inland Transport Services, Mr. Garta Ahmadu; and the Director of Finance and Accounts, Mr. Olaniyi Stephen, of unlawfully diverting Council funds for personal benefit.
The petition, signed by the National Convener, Dr. Samuel Mashin, and the National Secretary, Christopher Torumbe, alleged that the officials were involved in a series of financial infractions, including the unauthorised approval and disbursement of public funds.
Beyond the alleged N36 billion diversion, the group further claimed that an additional N2 billion was withdrawn from the Council’s treasury for the procurement of 50 units of 2027 Toyota Sienna vehicles, which it alleged were connected to a purported 2027 governorship ambition.
The petitioners also accused the NSC management of implementing what they described as arbitrary increases in shipping and terminal charges without adequate consideration of the economic consequences.
According to them, the hikes allegedly triggered cargo diversion to neighbouring countries and led to a drop in government revenue.
They further contended that the alleged actions of the Executive Secretary fostered a culture of impunity among senior officials, thereby eroding confidence in Nigeria’s maritime regulatory system.
The group said it had submitted documentary evidence to substantiate its allegations and urged the EFCC to invite the named officials for interrogation.
“We are ready to testify against the three of them at any trial court if invited,” the petitioners stated, while calling on the Commission to ensure that the accused persons do not obstruct investigations.
The EFCC, in an acknowledgment receipt issued on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 2:20 p.m., confirmed that it had received the petition from the Lagos-based organisation.
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