The Nigeria Immigration Service has suspended top commanders overseeing operations at the Seme Border following a growing extortion scandal that has sparked public outrage.
The disciplinary action was confirmed in a statement issued on Friday by the Service’s Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, who disclosed that the Comptroller-General, Kemi Nandap, had ordered an immediate investigation into the allegations.
According to the statement, the decision came after viral reports exposed alleged widespread extortion by immigration personnel operating along the busy Lagos-Seme corridor, a major gateway linking Nigeria with neighbouring West African countries.
Akinlabi described the conduct captured in the reports as a grave violation of the agency’s professional standards, stressing that the Comptroller-General had strongly condemned the actions.
“The Comptroller-General of Immigration 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 said.
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As part of the ongoing probe, the affected commanders have been temporarily relieved of their duties to allow for a thorough and impartial investigation.
The NIS assured that all officers found culpable would face immediate disciplinary action.
The Service also sought to reassure the public of its commitment to transparency, accountability, and professionalism in managing Nigeria’s borders, noting that it would not tolerate any misconduct capable of undermining public trust.
Amid mounting concerns over repeated allegations of harassment and extortion at border points, the NIS urged citizens to report any incidents through its official communication channels, adding that internal accountability mechanisms are being strengthened.
The latest development highlights growing scrutiny of security personnel at key entry and exit points, particularly at the Seme Border, where travelers and traders have long complained of unethical practices by officials.
The NIS reiterated its resolve to uphold integrity and discipline while facilitating lawful migration and cross-border movement across the country’s borders.
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