NIS suspends Comptroller, senior officers over extortion allegations along Lagos-Seme border

NIS suspends Comptroller, senior officers over extortion allegations along Lagos-Seme border

THE Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has temporarily removed several senior officers from their posts following allegations of widespread extortion by personnel operating along the Lagos-Seme Border corridor.

Comptroller General of the Service Kemi Nandap, ordered the immediate suspension of the Comptrollers in charge of the affected commands on Friday, after online reports detailed various instances of misconduct.

In a statement signed by the national spokesman of the agency, Akinsola Akinlabi, CGI Nandap condemned the behaviour, describing it as a “direct violation” of the organisation’s professional standards.

“The Comptroller-General unequivocally condemns the actions depicted in these reports.

“Such conduct is unacceptable and stands in direct violation of the core values, ethics, and operational standards of the Service” the statement contains.

The agency noted that as part of the disciplinary crackdown, the CG has initiated a formal inquiry to pinpoint every officer involved in the alleged racketeering.

“The CGI has temporarily relieved the Comptrollers in charge of the affected Commands of their duties and has directed a thorough investigation surrounding these incidents.

“This is to identify all officers involved and ensure that appropriate disciplinary measures are applied with immediate effect,” the NIS said .

The Seme Border, which serves as a major transit point between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, has long been under scrutiny regarding the conduct of security agencies.

The NIS has now pledged to reform its internal monitoring to restore its reputation.

The CG assured that “The Service remains committed to delivering professional, transparent, and efficient services at all points of entry and exit.

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

Following the reshuffle, the NIS urged the public to assist in its “mission to serve with integrity” by reporting any further abuses of power. Citizens have been encouraged to use official contact centre numbers and social media channels to lodge complaints.

The Service maintained that its internal mechanisms are being strengthened to ensure “accountability and service excellence” while facilitating lawful migration across the nation’s borders.

Kemi Nandap