The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Mrs Kemi Nandap, has suspended the commanding officers of units along the Lagos–Seme border corridor following allegations of extortion levelled against personnel of the service.
The decision came after reports circulated online accusing some immigration officers stationed along the busy border route of demanding illegal payments from travellers and traders.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Service Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, the Comptroller-General also ordered an immediate investigation into the allegations to determine those involved and ensure disciplinary action is taken.
The statement said the suspension is temporary and part of efforts to ensure a fair and transparent investigation into the matter.
Although the service did not disclose the exact number of officers affected or the specific units involved, it confirmed that all personnel linked to the allegations would be investigated.
According to the statement, the action is aimed at identifying “all officers involved” so that “appropriate disciplinary measures are applied with immediate effect.”
The Lagos–Seme border corridor is one of the most important entry and exit points in West Africa. It connects Nigeria to the Republic of Benin through the Seme land border in Lagos State.
The route is known for heavy movement of goods, traders, transporters and travellers on a daily basis. Because of its importance, it has also been a focal point for complaints over the years regarding harassment, delays and extortion by some border officials.
Many traders who use the route have in the past alleged that they are often forced to make unofficial payments before being allowed to pass, a situation that has drawn public concern and calls for reform.
The latest allegations surfaced through online videos and reports shared on social media, which showed what appeared to be misconduct by some immigration officers along the corridor.
The videos quickly attracted public attention and renewed criticism of the handling of border operations in the area.
In response, the Immigration Service said it strongly condemns any form of misconduct by its officers.
The statement described the alleged actions as unacceptable and a violation of the ethics, values and operational standards of the service.
“The Comptroller-General unequivocally condemns the actions depicted in these reports, as such conduct is unacceptable and stands in direct violation of the core values, ethics, and operational standards of the Service,” the statement said.
The service also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining professionalism, discipline and transparency at all entry and exit points across the country.
It stressed that it would not tolerate any act capable of damaging public trust or undermining the integrity of the institution.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains committed to professional, transparent, and efficient services at all points of entry and exit,” the statement added.
“The Service will not condone any act that undermines public trust or tarnishes its integrity.”
The Comptroller-General, Mrs Nandap, who assumed office in January 2024, has repeatedly spoken about the need for discipline and accountability within the service.
At a recent ceremony where newly promoted officers were decorated, she urged personnel to uphold the image of the organisation and serve the public with integrity.
Her latest action is being seen as part of efforts to enforce that message and respond to growing public concern about misconduct at border posts.
The Lagos–Seme border has long been a sensitive area for security and immigration operations in Nigeria.
In 2019, during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, the border was temporarily closed as part of a wider crackdown on smuggling and illegal cross-border activities.
The closure, which lasted into 2020, affected trade and movement between Nigeria and neighbouring countries, especially Benin Republic. It was later lifted after economic concerns and diplomatic discussions.
Since then, the corridor has remained active but continues to face challenges linked to congestion, smuggling, and allegations of extortion.
In its statement, the Immigration Service said it is taking the latest allegations seriously and is committed to ensuring that those found guilty will face appropriate sanctions.
The ongoing investigation is expected to cover all officers linked to the corridor, with the aim of restoring public confidence in border operations.
The service also encouraged members of the public to report any cases of misconduct through its official communication channels, including its verified social media handles and a 24-hour contact centre.
The hotline numbers provided are 09121900655, 09121556359, and 09121477092.
The Immigration Service said it believes public cooperation is important in ensuring accountability and improving service delivery.
As investigations continue, attention will be on how quickly the service addresses the allegations and whether the disciplinary measures taken will lead to lasting reforms along the Lagos–Seme border corridor.
For now, the suspension of senior officers marks one of the strongest actions taken by the service in recent times in response to public complaints.
Many Nigerians who regularly use the border route will be watching closely to see if the move brings real changes in how officers operate at the busy crossing point.