The Nigeria Customs Service claims to have started a thorough investigation into the officer who was shown in a widely shared video asking for a bribe of N5,000 at the New Terminal in the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
The National Public Relations Officer of NCS, Abdullahi Maiwad, denounced the unprofessional behavior in a statement in response to the event and promised to take appropriate disciplinary measures against the officer following a thorough investigation.
He asked the public and travelers to report any wrongdoing or corruption right now.
“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 behaviour 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 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 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.