By Our Correspondent
National News – The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, has temporarily relieved commanding officers along the Lagos-Seme Border corridor of their duties following online reports and viral videos alleging extortion by immigration personnel, according to a statement released on Friday in Lagos.
Weak supervision alleged bribery practices and public complaints prompted the action as authorities seek accountability discipline and restoration of public trust at one of West Africa’s busiest border routes linking Nigeria and Benin Republic.
The investigation will identify all involved officers and ensure appropriate disciplinary measures are applied without delay while the service reiterates commitment to professionalism lawful migration management and anti-corruption enforcement.
Lagos-Seme corridor, a strategic land border between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, handles heavy movement of goods, traders, and travellers, making it highly sensitive to security and immigration enforcement operations.
Recent allegations surfaced through social media videos and reports showing immigration officers allegedly demanding illegal payments from travellers, triggering public outrage and calls for reform of border operations.
Pushed into office in January 2024, Comptroller-General Kemi Nandap has consistently emphasised discipline, accountability, and integrity within the service, warning officers against misconduct and abuse of power.
The Nigeria Immigration Service stated it will not condone any act that undermines public trust, assuring citizens of transparent border management, efficient migration control, and strict enforcement of ethical standards across all entry points.
This development highlights the ongoing challenge of corruption allegations at border posts, where enforcement gaps, high traffic volumes, and cross-border trade pressures continue to fuel misconduct concerns requiring sustained reforms.
Authorities have urged travellers and traders to report extortion attempts while assuring that investigations will be thorough, transparent, and aimed at restoring confidence in Nigeria’s border security system.
Key issues include immigration corruption in Nigeria, Lagos-Seme border extortion allegations, disciplinary action by the Nigeria Immigration Service, and ongoing reforms in West African border management operations.
This case reinforces government commitment to accountability, stronger border oversight, and zero tolerance for misconduct among security personnel.
