The Nigeria Customs Service has asked the Federal High Court in Lagos to permanently forfeit three aircraft linked to billionaire businessman and MRS Holdings chief executive, Sayyu Dantata, over an alleged $1.75 million unpaid import duty. Customs told the court that the applicable duty rate was five per cent of the aircraft’s value, putting the combined estimated value of the three aircraft at about $35 million.
The aircraft are a 2011 Beechcraft King Air 350i, with serial number FL-750; a 2013 Gulfstream G550, with serial number 5455; and a 2018 Robinson R66 helicopter. The NCS alleged that the aircraft were brought into Nigeria without the required declaration, permits, approvals or payment of applicable duties.
It further alleged that the respondents misrepresented or failed to declare the aircraft’s actual purpose and status upon entry into the country. According to the service, privately owned aircraft that are permanently based in Nigeria are subject to import duty.
It said the alleged shortfall was uncovered during a recent verification exercise involving private aircraft. The NCS is seeking orders for the final seizure, condemnation and forfeiture of the aircraft under sections 245 and 246 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
It also wants ownership and possession of the aircraft vested in the service on behalf of the Federal Government, as well as authorisation to sell or otherwise dispose of them. Customs told the court that the orders were necessary to prevent the aircraft from being removed from Nigeria and to avoid the frustration of enforcement proceedings.
The matter has been adjourned until 22 October for continuation of the hearing.