The Senate on Thursday walked out the Customs Comptroller General, Hammed Ali from its chambers for not wearing uniform as directed.
He was asked to return next Wednesday, March 22 in uniform.
According to the Senators, Ali should lead by example.
Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekeremadu had earlier queried the Comptroller-General for not wearing his official uniform.
Responding, Ali claimed that the letter inviting him did not request that he should appear in uniform.
Contributing to the debate on the issue, Senator Ibn Na’Allah said the circular issued by the Customs CG stating to the Senate that he won’t wear his uniform is derogatory.
Na’Allah cited sections 7, 8 &10 of the Customs Act, which states that the Customs shares same privileges with police and other institutions.
Senator Jibrin said the CG needs to go and apply the law of the land by wearing uniform before he addresses the Senate as stipulated in the constitution.
Faulting the refusal of the CG to wear uniform, Senator Yayi Adeola said anyone can wear the Customs uniform and appear as the Comptroller General.
A retired Customs officer, Senator Ali Wakili however said the Senate should temper justice with mercy, noting that Ali “is a man of integrity”.
Sen. Magnus Abe pleaded with the CG to wear his uniform to preserve the image of the Customs and perception of other institutions.
The motion to compel the CG to appear in uniform was moved by Senator George Sekibo and seconded by Senator Gemade who said it is respectable and important for the Customs boss to wear his uniform.
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