A bleak Christmas awaits a female Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) officer who was caught on camera demanding for a N5, 000 bribe from a passenger at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) Lagos.
Though the exact disciplinary measure to be meted out to the officer is yet to be made public, Maritime Bits checks revealed that she may be shown the exit door of NCS to serve as a deterrent to other bad eggs in the service.
Whatever the outcome of the findings, it was gathered that a bleak Christmas awaits the officer as she is expected to face a disciplinary panel in the days ahead.
The incident which occurred recently at Nigeria’s busiest airport has set tongues wagging on the menace of corruption in the service.
Already, the Customs High Command has expressed its resolve to diligently investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident which video has gone viral.
The NCS in a statement signed by its National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada and made available to Maritime Bits, lamented that this behaviour has rightfully raised public concern, vowing to take appropriate actions against the officer.
His words: “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 ₦5,000 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 scrutinise the incident thoroughly, and appropriate actions will be taken”.
Apparently mindful of the stand of the recently confirmed Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyin on such matters, Maiwada said: “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 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 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.”
