Customs condemns officer seeking N5,000 bribe from passenger, launches probe

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has criticised a female officer featured in a viral video soliciting a bribe from a passenger at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

The unidentified officer was observed in the less than two-minute clip requesting a sum of N5,000 while clutching the trolley containing the passenger’s luggage.

Following the passenger’s inability to afford the N5,000, the officer reduced the sum to N3,000.

Once again, the passenger expressed incapacity to pay the N3,000, offering N1,000, provoking the Customs officer.

In response to the incident, NCS spokesman, Abdullahi Maiwada described it as “unprofessional conduct,” stating the officer’s actions were “inconsistent” with the agency’s values.

Maiwada confirmed the commencement of a “comprehensive investigation” to ascertain the details of the incident.

He did not disclose whether the Customs officer would 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 read.

“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.”