The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has suspended senior officers overseeing operations along the Lagos-Seme border corridor following allegations of extortion against personnel in the area.
The development was confirmed in a statement issued on Friday, April 10, by the agency’s spokesperson, Akinsola Akinlabi. According to the statement, the action was taken in response to online reports accusing some immigration officers stationed along the Lagos-Seme route of engaging in misconduct, particularly acts described as extortion.
Akinlabi disclosed that the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, has “temporarily relieved the Comptrollers in charge of the affected Commands of their duties” pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation into the allegations.
The suspension, he explained, is part of the agency’s effort to ensure accountability and uphold professionalism within its ranks while the probe is conducted.
Condemning the reported actions, Nandap described the alleged misconduct as unacceptable and inconsistent with the standards expected of officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service. She stressed that such behavior represents a direct violation of the Service’s core values, ethical principles, and operational guidelines.
“The actions depicted in the reports are unacceptable and in direct violation of the core values, ethics, and operational standards of the Service,” the statement read.
The agency further assured the public that the investigation would be thorough and far-reaching, with a focus on identifying all officers involved in the alleged infractions. It added that appropriate disciplinary measures would be implemented swiftly against anyone found culpable.
The Lagos-Seme border is a major transit route between Nigeria and neighboring countries, making it a critical point for immigration control and cross-border movement. Allegations of extortion along the corridor have, in the past, raised concerns among travelers and stakeholders about the conduct of security personnel operating in the area.
Observers say the swift action by the Nigeria Immigration Service signals a commitment to addressing misconduct and restoring public confidence in the agency’s operations.
The Service reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on corruption and misconduct, urging members of the public to report any incidents of extortion or abuse of office by its personnel through appropriate channels.
As the investigation continues, the outcome is expected to determine further administrative or disciplinary steps, including possible sanctions for those found guilty of wrongdoing.
