The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Mrs Kemi Nandap, has suspended the commanding officers of affected commands along the Lagos-Seme border corridor following viral online reports of extortion by personnel of the service.
Nandap temporarily relieved the commanding officers of the affected commands of their duties and ordered an immediate investigation into the incidents. The service, in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, 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 service said the investigation was launched to identify all officers involved and ensure that anyone found culpable faces appropriate disciplinary measures without delay. The statement did not specify the number of officers suspended or identify the particular commands affected.
The Immigration Service reiterated its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and accountability at all entry and exit points, adding that it will not tolerate actions capable of undermining public trust. The service also assured Nigerians that internal monitoring mechanisms are being strengthened to improve service delivery and uphold integrity in all operations.
The Lagos-Seme corridor, which links Nigeria to the Republic of Benin at the Seme land border in Lagos State, is one of the busiest and most strategically significant entry and exit points in West Africa, handling heavy volumes of commercial goods, cross-border traders, and travellers. The route has long been a pressure point for complaints of harassment and extortion by border officials.
According to Punch, allegations of extortion along the corridor resurfaced recently through online videos and reports that drew public attention to the conduct of immigration personnel stationed there.
