Nigeria Customs investigates staff caught on camera demanding bribe at Lagos airport
In response to a widely circulated video depicting a Customs officer soliciting a ₦5000 bribe from a passenger at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has initiated a thorough investigation to address the incident and ensure accountability.
The incident, which occurred at the New Terminal within the departure hall of the airport, was captured on video by the affected passenger, sparking concerns among the public.
According to the NCS, preliminary findings indicate that the officer in question is its staff, specifically assigned to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Area Command.
The NCS, unequivocally condemning the unprofessional conduct, said it is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism within its ranks.
The recorded video reveals an inappropriate request for ₦5000 in exchange for expeditious processing of customs procedures.
In a statement made available to DAT, the Chief Superintendent of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer for the NCS, stated, “Such behavior is entirely inconsistent with the core values of our service, and we are resolute in maintaining a transparent and accountable customs operation.”
He said a comprehensive investigation is currently underway to thoroughly scrutinize the incident, and appropriate actions will be taken against the implicated officer.
The NCS emphasised its dedication to fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, reinforcing that this behavior goes against the principles that guide the customs operation.
By this statement, the has urged the public to report instances of misconduct or corruption promptly, as these reports play a crucial role in upholding the integrity of the service and ensuring officers adhere to the highest ethical standards.
The NCS assured of its unwavering commitment to keeping the public informed, with the outcome of the investigation set to be communicated at the earliest opportunity.
The statement: “RE: INVESTIGATION INTO ALLEGED MISCONDUCT BY A CUSTOMS OFFICER IN VIRAL VIDEO
1. The Nigeria Customs Service is diligently investigating an incident at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, where an officer was observed soliciting ₦5000 bribe from a passenger. This behavior has rightfully raised public concern, and we are committed to ensuring full accountability.
2. 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 ₦5000 in exchange for expeditious processing of customs procedures.
3. 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.
4. The NCS strongly condemns this unprofessional conduct and is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism. A comprehensive investigation is underway to scrutinize the incident thoroughly, and appropriate actions will be taken.
5. Such behavior is entirely inconsistent with the core values of our service, and we are resolute in maintaining a transparent and accountable customs operation.
6. We encourage passengers and the public to report any instances of misconduct or corruption promptly. These reports are crucial in upholding the integrity of our service and ensuring that officers adhere to the highest ethical standards. The NCS is unwavering in its commitment to fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. The outcome of the investigation will be communicated to the public at the earliest opportunity.
ABDULLAHI MAIWADA, Chief Superintendent of Customs, National Public Relations Officer For Comptroller General of Customs. 12 December 2023.
