By Uzor Odigbo
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has threatened to seal off some terminals operating at the Lagos Port complex over operation of Roll On Roll off barges
The threat is coming against the backdrop of the suspension of the use of barges to move Roll On Roll Off vehicles in and out of the Lagos seaports.
In a circular to the Managing Director, ENL consortium. and sighted by TheNiche.ng.com, tagged, “Re: Suspension of RORO barge operations from all terminals in the Lagos Pilotage district,” the Port Manager, Lagos Port, Olufunmilayo Olotu said that the directive was from the management of the authority.
She however warned that any terminal that persisted in allowing RoRo barge operation at the Lagos ports would be sealed.
The letter reads, “We are directed to convey the suspension of RORO Barge operations from all terminals in the Lagos pilotage district by Nigerian Ports Authority’s Executive Management.
“This suspension takes effect from December 1, 2020. No Terminal Operator is allowed to receive RORO Barges in Lagos Port Complex.
“Please note that any violation of this directive will attract stiffer sanctions, including but not limited to sealing of such erring terminals.
“This is for your strict compliance as we assure of out esteemed regards, as always.”
However, a group, Social Integrity Network, (SINET), has challenged the suspension order, urging President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently call for the immediate withdrawal of a letter which purportedly ordered the suspension of RORO Barge operations from all terminals in the Lagos District.
The Social Integrity Network, (SINET) in a statement issued on Monday by its national coordinator, Mallam Ibrahim Issa, described the action as a deliberate attempt to sabotage the current administration’s efforts in boosting the nation’s economy as well as enhancing ease-of-doing-business.
