The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has initiated a crackdown on unauthorized courier, express delivery, dispatch, and logistics service providers in Kano State.
Dotun Shonde, the General Manager of the Courier and Logistics Regulatory Department (CLRD) at NIPOST, addressed the press during the operation in Kano, highlighting the necessity of the exercise to purge the postal service industry of unlicensed practitioners.
Shonde explained that numerous complaints had been received regarding fraudulent activities within the sector, perpetrated by operators who lacked proper licenses and disregarded existing postal service laws.
He emphasized that according to the NIPOST Act CAP 127 laws of the Federation of Nigeria, Section 43 mandates obtaining a license from the Postmaster General before operating a courier, express delivery, dispatch, or logistics service.
Shonde outlined various unethical practices prevalent among illegal operators, including price undercutting, theft, damage to items, and fraudulent dealings with customers. He also cited concerns regarding public safety and security due to the transportation of illicit substances.
To address these issues, an enforcement team comprising CLRD officials, armed mobile police officers, FCID personnel, and representatives from the press has been deployed.
The primary objective is to restore integrity to the postal industry in Kano State by eliminating unlicensed operators. Shonde emphasized the importance of adhering to proper procedures and obtaining operating licenses from NIPOST, warning against legal consequences for non-compliance.
He mentioned that similar enforcement exercises had been conducted in other states such as Abia, Rivers, Edo, Lagos, Ogun, Katsina, and Kwara, with plans to continue in Kaduna, Abuja, and eventually Osun state.
Several offices were sealed during the operation, including those situated around Bompai road, Shari’a Commission road, and Tarauni market.