The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has suspended several Comptrollers following serious allegations of extortion involving its personnel along the Lagos-Seme border corridor.
The action, described as immediate and decisive, comes amid growing public outrage triggered by viral online reports detailing alleged misconduct and exploitation of travelers at the busy international border.
The Comptroller-General of the service, Mrs Kemi Nandap, directed that the commanding officers of the affected commands be temporarily relieved of their duties after online reports alleged misconduct by personnel.
In a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, on Friday, the service said Nandap “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.”
The statement did not state how many officers were affected or name the commands involved, but noted that the investigation would identify “all officers involved” to ensure “appropriate disciplinary measures are applied with immediate effect.”
The Lagos-Seme corridor, which connects Nigeria to the Republic of Benin at the Seme land border in Lagos State, remains a major route for goods, traders, and travellers across West Africa..
The Seme border, a critical gateway between Nigeria and neighbouring Benin Republic, has long been plagued by complaints of illegal charges and harassment by security operatives. The latest allegations, however, appear to have reached a tipping point, prompting swift intervention by the immigration authorities.
While the NIS did not disclose the exact number of officers affected, it reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on corruption and misconduct, assuring the public that any personnel found culpable would face strict disciplinary measures in line with established regulations.
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The Service also urged members of the public to continue reporting incidents of extortion and unethical behaviour, pledging improved accountability and professionalism across all its commands.
According to the statement the outcome of the ongoing investigation could have far-reaching implications for border management and the integrity of Nigeria’s immigration system.
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