The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, said that it has begun a diligent investigation into an incident at Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos State where an officer was seen in a viral video soliciting ₦5,000 bribe from a passenger at the departure hall.
Disclosing this in a statement, the Customs National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, a Chief Superintendent of Customs who spoke on behalf of the Comptroller General of Customs, noted that the act of the Customs officer raised public concern, prompting the investigation to ensure full accountability.
According to the statement, “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 scrutinize 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.”
