Harboursandport.com: Lagos - The Council of Maritime Transport Unions and Associations (COMTUA), representing the interests of truckers and transport operators, have commended the management of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) for suspending the virtual park, managed by Truck Transit Park Limited (TTP), position championed by the leadership of COMTUA.
Describing the suspension as a significant step in the towards rectifying the regularities and fraudulent practices that have plagued the call up regime, COMTUA also request for a probe into it's operations.
A statement signed by the National President of COMTUA, Adeyinka Aroyewun and made available to Harboursandport.com, noted that "We have mentioned numerous complaints regarding various irregularities attached to operations of these virtual parks. These complaints have raised concerns about the transparency, fairness, and accountability of the system. Therefore, we applaud the Nigerian Ports Authority for taking swift action in response to our concerns, as well as those raised by other stakeholders.
"In light of the suspension of the virtual parks, we kindly request the Nigerian Ports Authority to initiate a thorough investigation into the proceeds of the fraudulent virtual parks. It is crucial to identify and hold accountable those responsible for any fraudulent activities, as this will help restore confidence in the call-up regime and ensure a fair and efficient system for all stakeholders.
"We seek clarification on other critical issues pertaining to the truck call-up regime. These issues have caused significant hardships for our members and have raised concerns about the transparency, fairness, and effectiveness of the system.
"1. The Need for Joint Inspection and Criteria for Park Approval.
"We request clarification on the necessity of conducting joint inspections to ensure that approved parks meet the criteria for approval. It is imperative that truckers have access to secure and suitable parking facilities that comply with the required standards.
"Therefore, we seek clarification on the specific criteria and procedures for park approval, as well as the involvement of relevant stakeholders in the inspection process. This we requested in a letter written to you but have not received a response from you. We are the users of the facilities deserve to know about the parks.
"2. Policy Statement on Complete Ban on Priority Movement of Trucks.
"We demand a clear policy statement regarding the complete ban on the movement of trucks on a priority basis, such as the case of booking cold room containers through a group.
"The lack of clarity on this matter has resulted in confusion and unfair treatment of truckers. We urge the Nigerian Ports Authority to provide comprehensive guidelines and regulations that outline the circumstances under which priority movement of trucks is permitted, ensuring equal opportunities for all stakeholders.
"3. Audit of Monies Paid to Virtual Parks.
"We demand an immediate audit of the monies paid to the virtual parks before their suspension. The allegations of fraudulent practices and irregularities surrounding the virtual parks have raised serious concerns regarding why the same amount of money is paid for garages with facilities and virtual Parks, we need an audit of the recipient of the money meant for park owners in the case of the Virtua Parks. It is crucial that a thorough investigation takes place to identify any misappropriation of funds and hold those responsible accountable.
"4. Apologies to Truckers and Unbundling of the Process.
"We request a formal apology to truckers for the hardships they have endured as a result of the failures of the electronic call-up regime, particularly under the management of Truck Transit Park Limited (TTP). The inconsistencies and inefficiencies of the system have caused significant delays, financial losses, and frustrations for our members. Furthermore, we request the immediate unbundling of the call-up process to ensure a more efficient and reliable system that addresses the needs of the industry.
"We expect a prompt response addressing our concerns and providing the necessary clarifications. The Council of Maritime Transport Unions and Associations is committed to working collaboratively with the Nigerian Ports Authority to resolve these issues and establish a fair, transparent, and efficient truck call-up regime that benefits all stakeholders," he concluded.
Yours faithfully,
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