By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has initiated a thorough investigation into the alleged misconduct in response to a viral video depicting a customs officer soliciting a ₦5,000 bribe from a passenger at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos.
This was revealed in a statement signed by Abdullahi Maiwadah, the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service today.
The statement partly reads: “The Nigeria Customs Service is diligently investigating an incident at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, where an officer was observed soliciting ₦5000 bribe from a passenger. This behavior has rightfully raised public concern, and we are committed to ensuring full accountability.
“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 ₦5000 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 behavior is entirely inconsistent with the core values of our service, and we are resolute in maintaining a transparent and accountable customs operation.”