The representatives of the Governments of Nigeria and Switzerland have signed a Memorandum of Understanding MoU for the release of a Swiss flag merchant vessel, MT SAN PADRE PIO.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Awwal Gambo who disclosed this in Abuja said the important engagement was conducted at the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Conference Room, Federal Ministry of Justice.
Gambo noted that the amicable resolution and subsequent signing of the MoU came as a result of the diplomatic efforts and intervention of the two governments.
He said “the vessel MT SAN PADRE PIO was arrested by the Nigerian Navy Ship SAGBAMA on Tuesday January 23, 2018 at Odudu Oil Terminal for operating in Nigeria’s Exclusive Economic Zone without proof of payment of the requisite 3% import sea protection and offshore oil reception facilities levies”.
According to him,, the vessel and crew were handed over to the EFCC for prosecution which led to litigation at both the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, Hamburg, Germany and the Federal High Court, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court of Nigeria respectively.
He said “the signing of the MoU was undertaken by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice on behalf of Nigeria, while the Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria signed on behalf of the Swiss Government”.
In attendance at the signing ceremony were the representatives of the Nigerian Navy, Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the EFCC.
Nneka Ukachukwu
