NIS suspends Lagos-Seme Comptrollers over extortion allegations

The Nigeria Immigration Service has suspended senior officers in charge of the Lagos-Seme border commands following allegations of extortion.

In a statement issued on Friday, the agency’s spokesperson, Akinsola Akinlabi, said the decision followed online reports accusing some immigration officers along the Lagos-Seme corridor of misconduct.

He explained that the accusations, which have drawn public attention, involve acts “bordering on extortion” by personnel operating in the area.

According to the statement, 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 service noted that the action is part of efforts to ensure accountability and uphold professionalism within its ranks.

Akinlabi said Nandap unequivocally condemned the actions depicted in the reports, describing them as “unacceptable” and in “direct violation of the core values, ethics, and operational standards of the Service”.

The statement said the investigation would be comprehensive, aimed at identifying all officers involved and ensuring “appropriate disciplinary measures are applied with immediate effect”.

“The Service wishes to reassure the general public, that it remains committed to delivering professional, transparent, and efficient services at all points of entry and exit,” the statement added.

“It will not condone any act that undermines public trust or tarnishes the integrity of the Service.”

The NIS also urged Nigerians to report misconduct by its officers through official channels, including its social media platforms and 24-hour contact centre lines, noting that internal mechanisms were being strengthened to uphold service standards.

“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains resolute in its mission to serve with integrity, discipline, and professionalism while facilitating lawful migration,” Akinlabi added.

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