SIR: The only explanation so far given by the Department of Customs for the federal government lifting the ban on fabrics and furniture imports is that ‘textile and furniture have become dutiable as both commodities have been removed from the Import Prohibition list’. Assistant Comptroller General Victor Gbemudu, representing Zone A reportedly said this. What the Comptroller did not say is why the Common External Tarrif, CET, had to apply now in the face of the dwindling fortunes of our textile industries. If Nigerians keep importing common items like furniture, which are in great and cheap supply in Edo State, and fabrics as against our Ankara, wouldn’t that further impound the growth of our economy?

What is 35 per cent import duty to Nigeria compared to the huge gains that translates to a robust GDP?

• Bob Etemiku, ANEEJ,
(www.aneej.org’