…CGC assures grooming an Unblemished Service without Wrinkles, as preliminary investigation reveals incident transpired at the New Terminal
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has begun a diligent investigation of an alleged demand of N5,000 bribe by a Customs officer from a passenger at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, stressing that the Service would ensure full accountability.
This was a sequel to a video that has now gone viral, in which an officer, contrary to the philosophy of the current CGC, purportedly demanded a N5,000 bribe if the passenger’s food would not be delayed.
Not realizing she was being recorded, the officer negotiated N3,000 as the passenger merely offered only N1,000, resulting in the infuriated officer, attempting to delay his cargo.
“This behavior has rightfully raised public concern, and we are committed to ensuring full accountability”, the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi Stated in a swift reaction, in a statement made available by Abdullahi Maiwada, a Customs Chief Superintendent and National Public Relations Officer.
The Comptroller-General highlighted that 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.
“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 ₦5000 in exchange for expeditious processing of customs procedures.
*The alleged culprit
“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 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”, the Comptroller General further assured.
