Dr. Basil Nwolisa, President of the Association of Nigeria Customs Brokers and the National Compliance Joint Task Force of Licensed Customs Agents (NCJTFLCA), has unveiled a handbook aimed at unraveling corruption in Nigeria.
Titled “The Toll of Corruption in Nigeria,” the book exposes the tricks and game plans of those who exploit ordinary citizens, particularly along major routes like the East-West Road and Lagos-Barracks-West Road”.
Dr. Nwolisa is urging Nigerians to rise against “socialized corruption,” warning that the nation risks collapse if systemic extortion and abuse are left unchecked.
He emphasizes that the book is a call to revolution against corruption and lack of transparency in daily life, stressing that Nigeria cannot survive forever if corrupt practices continue unchecked .
Corruption as a Criminal Enterprise*: Dr. Nwolisa condemned corruption on Nigerian highways as a “criminal enterprise in motion,” noting that citizens are often harassed, intimidated, and assaulted by security operatives and impostors.
Multiple Layers of Extortion*: He questioned why citizens continue to face multiple layers of extortion after clearing their goods at ports, emphasizing that no other unit should stop a vehicle again after Customs has examined and released a consignment.
Inspiring Change*: The book has already inspired change, with a viral confrontation between civilians and Customs operatives in Ondo State, where those involved confirmed they were inspired by the book .
Empowering Citizens
Dr. Nwolisa’s handbook aims to empower citizens to demand transparency and accountability from government, military, and paramilitary officers.
He urges journalists to play their role in exposing abuse and demanding transparency, emphasizing that advocacy and accountability are key to defeating corruption.
Despite facing harassment and arrests, Dr. Nwolisa remains undeterred, saying,
“The Bible says the first to enter the lake of fire are the fearful. Fear is what has kept Nigeria in chains. We must free ourselves from fear to defeat corruption”.
