The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has condemned a female officer who was captured in a viral video soliciting a bribe from a passenger at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
The unnamed officer was captured in a video lasting less than two minutes, demanding a fee of N5,000 while holding the passenger’s luggage trolley.
Upon the passenger expressing inability to afford the N5,000, the officer subsequently lowered the amount to N3,000.
Once again, the passenger conveyed his inability to pay the reduced N3,000 sum. When asked about a more affordable amount, the passenger suggested N1,000, leading to a reaction from the Customs officer.
Reacting to the incident in a statement, the NCS spokesman, Abdullahi Maiwada, described the incident as “unprofessional conduct”, saying the officer’s action was “inconsistent” with the values of the agency.
Maiwada stated that a “comprehensive investigation” has commenced to ascertain what transpired during the incident.
He also didn’t reveal if the Customs officer will be suspended during the probe.
“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 statement reads.
“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.”