- Safiu Kehinde
The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has suspended its officer caught in viral video demanding money from tourist at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
In reaction to the viral video, the agency issued a statement on its X handle, condemning the act of the Immigration Officer who was identified as Okpravero Ufuoma.
While disclosing that immediate investigation is ongoing, NIS, in the statement signed by its Comptroller General, Kemi Nandap, announced the suspension of the wanting officer.
They, however, stated that does not reflect the values and ethics of professionalism upheld by the NIS.
The statement read in part; “The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has received a video currently circulating on social media titled “This is how Immigration officers treat tourists in Nigeria,” in which one of its officers is seen soliciting financial gratification from a traveler.
“We wish to inform the public that the conduct of the officer, identified as OKPRAVERO C. UFUOMA, an Assistant Superintendent of Immigration Il (ASI 2) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, does not reflect the values and ethics of professionalism upheld by the NIS.
“The NIS condemns this misconduct in the strongest terms, as it undermines the ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing our service standards. This disgraceful act is not representative of our commitment to hospitality, reception, and courtesy.
“The public is reminded that electronic gates (e-gates) are being installed at all of the countrys international airports to facilitate smoother travel for all passengers, particularly Nigerians. Among other benefits, this measure aims to prevent incidents like the one involving OKPRAVERO C. UFUOMA.
“The NIS reiterates its commitment to identifying and removing corrupt elements within its ranks, in line with our Zero-Tolerance for Corruption policy.
“We assure the public that the NIS will continue to strive for excellence in service delivery, in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of this administration.”