Chinedu Eze
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has started investigation into the action of one of its personnel deployed to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
She was seen in the video demanding bribe from a passenger that arrived the country, insisting she would not allow him leave the arrival hall with his luggage.
The customs officer solicited for N5000 bribe from the passenger, but the NCS has initiated a thorough investigation to address the incident and ensure accountability.
The incident, which occurred at the New international Terminal of the airport, was captured on video by the affected passenger and stirred concerns among the public.
According to the NCS, preliminary findings indicate that the officer in question is its employee, specifically assigned to the airport area command.
The NCS openly condemned the unprofessional conduct and said it is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism within its ranks.
A statement signed by the Chief Superintendent of Customs and the National Public Relations Officer for the NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada, stated that such behaviour was inconsistent with the core values of the service.
“We are resolute in maintaining a transparent and accountable customs operation,” it added.
He said a comprehensive investigation was going on and assured that appropriate actions would be taken against the officer if found guilty.
“The Nigeria Customs Service is diligently investigating an incident at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, where an officer was observed soliciting N5000 bribe from a passenger. This behaviour has rightfully raised public concern, and we are committed to ensuring full accountability.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the incident transpired at New Terminal, within the departure hall of Murtala Mohammed International Airport Lagos, and was captured on video by the involved passenger.
“The recording reveals an inappropriate request for N5000 in exchange for expeditious processing of customs procedures.
“We wish to confirm that the officer implicated is indeed a member of the Nigeria Customs Service, properly assigned to the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Area Command.
“The NCS strongly condemns this unprofessional conduct and is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism. A comprehensive investigation is underway to scrutinise the incident thoroughly, and appropriate actions will be taken,” the statement said.
It encouraged passengers and the public to report any instances of misconduct or corruption promptly.
