By Oluwatosin Maliki
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has initiated an investigation into the case of a female officer who was seen in a viral video on social media demanding N5,000 bribe from a passenger at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport.
In the trending video, the officer had insisted on collecting N5,000 from the man as a condition for releasing his luggage. As seen by Quest Times, the passenger pleaded to pay N1,000.
However, the custom officer responded by tossing his luggage to a corner, indicating possible delay, if he didn’t pay the requested amount.
In a reaction, on Tuesday, the NCS National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, released a statement saying that the agency is diligently investigating the incident at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, “where an officer was observed soliciting N5,000 bribe from a passenger.”
Furthermore, Maiwada stated that this behaviour “has rightfully raised public concern, and we are committed to ensuring full accountability.”
He also disclosed that preliminary investigation had revealed that the incident took place at the new terminal, within the departure hall of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Lagos, noting that it 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,” he confirmed”.
The statement read further, “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 scrutinize the incident thoroughly, and appropriate actions will be taken”.
“Such behavior 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.”
Meanwhile, the PRO assured that 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,” he stated.
Watch video below:
Shameless Corrupt Nigeria Custom officer extorting a passenger at the Airport. pic.twitter.com/iYbnevm0PX
— X-Daily (@X_Dailly) December 11, 2023