Immigration Service Suspends Lagos-Seme Border Commanders

The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Mr. Kemi Nandap, has temporarily relieved commanders along the Lagos-Seme border corridor of their duties following online reports alleging extortion by personnel.

Nandap ordered an immediate investigation into the incidents, as stated in a service statement signed by Akinsola Akinlabi from the public relations office. He condemned the reported conduct as unacceptable and a direct violation of the core values and ethical operational standards of the service.

The statement did not specify the number of officers suspended or identify the commands affected by the investigation. The Lagos-Seme corridor is a significant entry and exit point in West Africa, handling a heavy volume of commercial goods and cross-border trade.

Complaints of harassment and extortion by border officials have resurfaced, particularly after the border closure by the Buhari-led government from 2019 to 2020 aimed at curbing smuggling and unauthorized movements. Nandap, who assumed office as Comptroller General in January 2024, emphasized the commitment to professionalism and transparency within the service.