Customs begin probe of officer demanding bribe at Lagos airport

A female officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has been caught on camera demanding N5,000 bribe from a passenger at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport.

PUNCH Online reports that the officer had insisted that she would collect N5,000 from the man, who said he would only give her N1,000.

Reacting in a statement on Tuesday, the NCS National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, said the agency is diligently investigating the incident at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, “where an officer was observed soliciting N5,000 bribe from a passenger.”

Maiwada said this behaviour “has rightfully raised public concern, and we are committed to ensuring full accountability.”

According to him, the preliminary investigation had revealed that the incident transpired at the new terminal, within the departure hall of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Lagos, adding that it 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,” he confirmed.

The statement read further: “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 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 PRO assured that 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,” he stated.