BREAKING: NIS Suspends Border Commanders Over Extortion Allegations

The Nigeria Immigration Service has suspended several top officers along the Lagos-Seme border following fresh allegations of extortion.

The action was approved by the Comptroller-General, Kemi Nandap, after disturbing reports surfaced online.

Politics Nigeria reports that the development was confirmed in an official statement released on Friday by the agency’s spokesperson, Akinsola Akinlabi.

According to the statement, the affected officers have been relieved of their duties pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation.

Nandap, in her reaction, “unequivocally condemns the actions depicted in these reports as such conduct is unacceptable and stands in direct violation of the core values, ethics, and operational standards of the service.” She described the alleged acts as a serious breach of public trust.

Although the exact number of officers affected was not disclosed, the Immigration Service made it clear that the probe would be thorough.

It added that the investigation is aimed at identifying “all officers involved” to ensure “appropriate disciplinary measures are applied with immediate effect.”

The Lagos-Seme border corridor remains one of Nigeria’s busiest international routes. It connects the country to the Republic of Benin and serves as a major channel for trade and movement within the West African sub-region. Thousands of travellers and traders pass through the route daily, making it a key economic lifeline.

However, the corridor has also gained a reputation over the years for persistent complaints. Travellers have repeatedly raised concerns about harassment and illegal demands by officials stationed at the border.

The latest allegations, backed by viral videos circulating online, have once again drawn national attention to the situation.

This is not the first time the border has come under scrutiny. During the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, the government ordered the closure of land borders between 2019 and 2020.

The move was aimed at curbing smuggling and tightening border security. While it achieved some of its objectives, it also sparked widespread criticism due to its economic impact on traders and neighbouring countries.

Since assuming office in January 2024, Nandap has repeatedly emphasised discipline and accountability within the Immigration Service. She has warned officers against misconduct and promised strict consequences for any actions that could damage the agency’s image.

At a recent decoration ceremony for newly promoted comptrollers, she reminded officers of their responsibilities. She urged them to maintain professionalism and protect the integrity of the service at all times.

Reaffirming its position, the Immigration Service stated that it remains committed to “professional, transparent, and efficient services at all points of entry and exit.”

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

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

The outcome of the investigation is expected to determine further actions, including possible sanctions against any officer found guilty.