Bombardier Jet Forfeited Over Unpaid Duties
- A Bombardier BD-700 Global 6000 aircraft has been permanently forfeited to the Federal government of Nigeria due to unpaid import duties and failure to obtain a Temporary import...
- The Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the final seizure,condemnation,and forfeiture of the aircraft on January 26,2024,applicable to its location at any airport within Nigeria.This ruling stems from...
- The forfeiture is a direct consequence of violations of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, specifically regarding the importation of aircraft.
Bombardier BD-700 Global 6000 Aircraft Forfeiture to Nigerian Government
Table of Contents
A Bombardier BD-700 Global 6000 aircraft has been permanently forfeited to the Federal government of Nigeria due to unpaid import duties and failure to obtain a Temporary import Permit.
The Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the final seizure,condemnation,and forfeiture of the aircraft on January 26,2024,applicable to its location at any airport within Nigeria.This ruling stems from a case brought before Justice Omotosho.
Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and Import Regulations
The forfeiture is a direct consequence of violations of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, specifically regarding the importation of aircraft.
According to the court, the aircraft was imported on October 25, 2015, as a non-commercial private jet, but no evidence of import duty payment or a Temporary Import Permit was presented during the proceedings. The Nigeria Customs Service requires both for legally importing or temporarily operating an aircraft within the country.
Failure to comply with these regulations constitutes a breach of the law, leading to penalties including seizure and forfeiture, as outlined in the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. Nigeria Customs Service
Legal Ruling and Government Revenue
Justice Omotosho ruled that the respondents in the case failed to provide proof of duty payment throughout the legal proceedings.
The court emphasized that operating the aircraft in Nigeria without fulfilling customs obligations deprived the Federal Government of legitimate revenue and represented a serious violation of customs regulations. This underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing import laws and maximizing revenue collection.
The judge’s order mandates the forfeiture of the aircraft to the Federal Government of Nigeria, regardless of its location within the country.The ruling was delivered on January 26, 2024. Federal High Court of Nigeria
Implications of the Forfeiture
the forfeiture of the Bombardier BD-700 global 6000 serves as a deterrent against similar violations of customs regulations.
It highlights the Nigerian government’s resolve to enforce its laws regarding the importation and operation of aircraft, ensuring compliance with import duties and permit requirements. The recovered asset will likely be added to the Federal Government’s pool of assets.
As of January 28, 2024, there have been no reported appeals or stays of execution regarding the court’s order.Premium Times Report