The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced investigation into an incident at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, where a female officer was caught on camera soliciting N5, 000 bribe from a passenger.
The unidentified officer was seen in the less than two-minute viral video requesting N5, 000 while clutching the trolley containing a passenger’s luggage.
After the passenger was heard saying he could not afford the N5, 000 sum, the officer reduced the sum to N3, 000.
Again, the passenger said he could not afford to pay the sum of N3, 000. When asked how much he could afford, the passenger said he could part with N1, 000, a situation that provoked the customs officer.
Reacting to the incident, spokesman for the NCS, Mr Abdullahi Maiwada, said in a statement that the officer’s conduct “is entirely inconsistent with the core values of our service.”
He said the service “is diligently investigating an incident” adding that “we are resolute in maintaining a transparent and accountable customs operation.”
The statement reads: “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 ₦5,000 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.
“Such behaviour is entirely inconsistent with the core values of our service, and we are resolute in maintaining a transparent and accountable customs operation.
“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.”
