Auctioneers urge investigation into government asset sales
The Nigeria Auctioneers Association has raised concerns over how government agencies handle the sale of seized and public assets. The group, led by Musa Kurra, claims that ministries and agencies are bypassing licensed auctioneers, leading to possible revenue loss and lack of transparency. Kurra specifically accused the Nigeria Customs Service of creating internal departments to manage auctions, which he described as illegal. The association is calling on President Bola Tinubu to look into these practices.
TLDR
- The Nigeria Auctioneers Association alleges that government agencies are sidelining licensed auctioneers in the disposal of public assets.
- Musa Kurra claims that the Nigeria Customs Service and other agencies have set up internal auction structures, which he says violate due process.
- Kurra cited an example where 338 vehicles were allegedly sold for N3.38m, far below their value, and called for an investigation.
- The association insists that asset disposal should involve qualified valuers and licensed auctioneers, as required by law.
- The Nigeria Customs Service, through spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada, responded that different rules apply to the disposal of fixed assets versus seized goods, and not all disposals require auctioneers.
