The Nigeria Customs Service has initiated a thorough investigation into the conduct of an officer captured in a viral video soliciting a N5,000 bribe at the New Terminal within the departure hall of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
Abdullahi Maiwad, the National Public Relations Officer of NCS, responded to the incident through a statement, strongly denouncing the unprofessional behavior. He assured the public of the service’s commitment to conducting a comprehensive investigation and affirmed the intention to take appropriate disciplinary measures against the officer once the investigation is concluded.
Maiwad also encouraged passengers and the general public to promptly report any instances of misconduct or corruption they encountered.
“The Nigeria Customs Service is diligently investigating an incident at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, where an officer was observed soliciting N5000 bribe from a passenger. This behavior has 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 Muhammed International Airport Lagos, and was captured on video by the involved passenger. The recording reveals an inappropriate request for N5000 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.
“We encourage passengers and the public to promptly report any misconduct or corruption. 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 as soon as possible”, the statement reads.
https://twitter.com/i/status/1734456497109643613
What a Nigeria Custom Officer Was Caught Doing At The Airport: Disgraceful!!! pic.twitter.com/8S5PrMRIpR
— Somto Okonkwo (@General_Somto) December 12, 2023
