The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has expressed grave concerns regarding the purported unprofessional conduct of Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) officers at the Seme border control post.
The Comptroller General of Immigration, Caroline Wura-Ola Adepoju, has taken immediate action following the minister’s dissatisfaction, ordering a thorough investigation into the allegations to identify and penalise those responsible.
This was disclosed through a statement released by the Public Relations Officer of Immigration, Dr. Aridegbe Adedotun, in Abuja on Saturday.
Adepoju stressed that if the allegations are substantiated, strict consequences will be imposed, noting that such actions contradict the esteemed values and principles upheld by the NIS.
The statement revealed the NIS’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and service to the nation. In response to the allegations, the NIS is implementing changes at border points to ensure the seamless passage of migrants without compromising national security.
It also called on the public to report any unprofessional conduct or provide feedback through official platforms provided by the NIS.
“In response to these allegations, the NIS is implementing changes at our borders to ensure the smooth passage of migrants without compromising national security. The Comptroller General is personally overseeing these changes to address any shortcomings and to reinforce a culture of accountability within the Service.
“The NIS acknowledges the importance of public trust and wishes to encourage the general public to report any unprofessional conduct or provide feedback through the following official platforms: X (Twitter): @Nigimmigration; Instagram: Nigimmigration; NIS Contact Center: 09121900655, 09121556359 and 09121 477092.
“The Service assures the public that all feedback and complaints will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate action will be taken to address any misconduct.
“The Comptroller General is confident that, with the continued support of the Honourable Minister of Inter, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and his dedication to fostering a disciplined and effective workforce within the NIS, the Service will overcome challenges and strengthen its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and public trust.
“We remain committed to our mandate of ensuring the security of our borders and facilitating the smooth movement of people. We appreciate the cooperation of the public in helping us maintain the highest standards of professionalism and accountability.”
The Interior Minister’s reaction comes in the wake of a distressing encounter narrated by a renowned Art History Professor, Moyo Okediji, detailing instances of alleged theft and mistreatment by NIS and police officers during his visit to Nigeria.
Okediji’s trip, initiated from Accra, Ghana, took a nightmarish turn upon reaching the Seme border, where he accused Immigrationpersonnel of pilfering $500 from his luggage.
The professor, a dual citizen of Nigeria and the United States, recounted the officers’ demand for a search, which resulted in the loss of the substantial sum.