Extortion scandal: Immigration CG relieves Seme Border commanders of duties

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, has temporarily relieved commanding officers overseeing units along the Lagos-Seme border corridor following allegations of extortion against service personnel.

Nandap also ordered an immediate investigation into the claims, which surfaced through online reports and videos.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, the Comptroller-General strongly condemned the alleged misconduct, describing it as a clear violation of the agency’s ethics and operational standards.

She stressed that such behaviour is unacceptable and does not reflect the core values of the Nigeria Immigration Service.

Although the statement did not disclose the number of officers affected or the specific commands involved, it noted that the ongoing investigation is aimed at identifying all personnel linked to the incidents to ensure swift disciplinary action.

The Lagos-Seme corridor, which connects Nigeria to the Republic of Benin through the Seme border in Lagos State, remains one of West Africa’s busiest and most strategic transit routes. It facilitates significant movement of goods, traders, and travellers, but has also been plagued by recurring complaints of harassment and extortion by border officials.

Concerns over misconduct in the area recently resurfaced following the circulation of online videos highlighting alleged extortion by immigration officers stationed along the route.

Nandap, who assumed office in January 2024, has consistently emphasised discipline and accountability as key priorities of her administration. She had earlier urged officers to uphold professionalism and protect the integrity of the Service.

Reaffirming its stance, the agency said it remains committed to delivering transparent, efficient, and professional services at all entry and exit points, warning that it will not tolerate any actions that erode public trust.

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

The Service also encouraged members of the public to report cases of misconduct through its official social media platforms on X, Instagram, and Facebook (@nigimmigration), or via its 24-hour contact lines: 09121900655, 09121556359, and 09121477092.