The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has taken decisive action following fresh allegations of extortion along the Lagos-Seme Border corridor. The move comes amid rising public concern over repeated incidents involving officers at key entry points.
The Comptroller-General of Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi N Nandap, has relieved senior Comptrollers overseeing the affected corridor of their duties. Therefore, a full-scale investigation has been ordered to uncover the extent of the reported racketeering cases and identify all officers involved.
Extortion Allegations Trigger Border Command Shake-Up
Recent online reports triggered the latest disciplinary action. According to the Service, the allegations of extortion contradict its core values and operational standards.
In an official statement signed by DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, the Service Public Relations Officer, the leadership described the conduct as unacceptable. In addition, it reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and transparency across all border posts.
The Comptroller-General stressed that any confirmed act of bribery demand would attract immediate disciplinary measures. Meanwhile, internal monitoring systems have been strengthened to prevent further misconduct.
The Service also urged travellers to report any incidents of extortion through official communication channels, including its social media platforms and 24-hour contact lines.
FIJ NG Report Adds Fresh Extortion Refund Case
According to FIJ NG, the Nigeria Immigration Service recently refunded ₦200,000 to Blessing Etim, a Mali-bound Nigerian woman allegedly subjected to extortion at the Seme Border.
FIJ NG reported that the refund was made in two instalments after its investigation into detention and alleged financial coercion by officers. The victim’s brother confirmed receipt of the funds, stating that justice would not have followed without media intervention.
The Service also reportedly vowed to investigate the officers involved following public exposure of the alleged extortion.
Pattern of Extortion Cases Raises Public Concern
This latest development adds to a growing list of reported corrupt solicitation incidents involving immigration officers across Nigeria.
At the Seme Border, a professor previously alleged he was forced to “settle” officers with $40 over an expired passport. Meanwhile, another high-profile case involved traveller complaints following the arrest of a public figure at the same corridor, raising further questions about unlawful extraction practices.
In earlier incidents, Senator Abubakar Kyari called for investigations into alleged extortion along inland routes in Borno State. In addition, airport-related cases have previously led to disciplinary action after CCTV evidence exposed officers demanding illegal payments from passengers.
Furthermore, aviation authorities confirmed that officers were punished after being caught engaging in extortion at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
Immigration Service Reaffirms Zero Tolerance for Extortion
The Service insists it remains committed to integrity and professionalism. Therefore, it has reiterated a zero-tolerance stance on extortion, particularly at sensitive border points.
According to officials, the goal is to rebuild public trust while ensuring lawful migration processes remain smooth and transparent. However, sustained allegations continue to challenge these assurances.
The Comptroller-General noted that the institution will not condone any act of coercion capable of undermining national confidence in border security operations.
Public Reporting Channels Strengthened
To encourage accountability, the Service has expanded reporting channels for extortion and misconduct cases. Citizens are encouraged to report incidents via official platforms including X, Instagram, Facebook, and dedicated hotline numbers
In addition, reforms are expected to improve oversight and reduce opportunities for crime at checkpoints nationwide.
The renewed crackdown signals a critical moment for the Nigeria Immigration Service as it battles repeated allegations of extortion. However, sustained enforcement and transparency will determine whether public confidence can truly be restored.
