Nigerian Immigration Service Embroiled in Passport Extortion Scandal.

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) is facing allegations of extortion regarding passport renewals. Applicants claim officials demand an unofficial N30,000 fee, despite the stipulated N130,000 for renewal and data change.

Victims’ testimonies reveal a pattern of corruption. One applicant paid N130,000, only to be asked for an additional N30,000. “I was told the person heading the Alausa office collects this amount,” he said. Another applicant waited weeks without updates, until contacting a well-connected NIS officer, who expedited the process for an extra, unofficial fee.

The NIS website lists N100,000 for a 64-page passport booklet and N30,000 for data correction, totaling N130,000. However, officials allegedly demand more. Kenneth Udo, NIS public relations officer, denied these allegations, stating, “The correct fee is N130,000; no extra N30,000 is required”.

This scandal underscores entrenched corruption within the NIS, despite efforts to reform. In January 2023, four personnel were dismissed and 14 demoted for various offenses. Investigations reveal widespread extortion at passport offices.

Previous Extortion Allegations:

• In November 2023, passport applicants in Abuja accused NIS officials of massive extortion.
• Applicants reported paying extra fees, ranging from N5,000 to N40,000.

Government Response:

The Federal Government promises to address corruption, but concrete actions are lacking. The NIS must investigate these allegations and take decisive action.

Enugu Businessman Obtains Court Order to Halt Arrest Over Alleged Assault on Truck Driver.

Enugu State High Court has granted an ex-parte order restraining the Inspector General of Police, Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Force Criminal Investigation Department Enugu Annex, and other respondents from arresting Donald Ekete, Managing Director of Eketeson Resources Nig Ltd. This development comes after Ekete allegedly instructed policemen attached to his company to beat Okechukwu Ofor, a truck driver from rival company Toshel Nig Ltd, into a coma.

The incident occurred on June 3, 2024, when Ofor was dumped at Independence Layout Police Station by the policemen, who then disappeared. Fortunately, some policemen intervened, taking Ofor to a police clinic and later transferring him to another hospital for proper treatment.

Ofor has since filed a lawsuit seeking over N600 million in compensation for aggravated, exemplary and general damages. Additionally, Ekete’s rival company Managing Director, Tochukwu Nzekwe, was arrested, arraigned and remanded in prison custody on September 26, 2024, on trumped-up charges.

The court order, dated October 10, 2024, with Suit No: E/863/2024, directs respondents to maintain the status quo pending determination of the substantive application, adjourning the matter to October 24, 2024, for hearing of the Motion on Notice.

Nigerian Prison Inmates Protest Over Diverted Food Donations.

Inmates at the Nigerian Correctional Services Medium Security Custodial Centre in Keffi, Nasarawa State, staged a protest against poor feeding conditions after discovering that top officials had diverted donated rice meant for them.

 Allegations of Corruption

Sources revealed that a truckload of rice (about 500 bags) was donated to the facility, but approximately 200 bags were taken by staff, leaving 300 for the inmates. However, senior officer Assistant Controller Shagba allegedly orchestrated the removal of the remaining bags, sparking the protest.

 Protest and Aftermath

The inmates, aware of the diversion, began chanting protest songs and physically attacked officials involved. The state controller and zonal coordinator intervened to calm the situation. The incident led to the transfer of many inmates to other facilities.

 Repeated Incidents

This is not an isolated incident. Inmates in Jos, Plateau State, previously protested plans to reduce their food rations. Philanthropists’ donations have been repeatedly diverted, sparking tensions.

 Official Response

Current Officer-in-Charge Dr. Alhaji Thomas denied the allegations, calling them “lies.” However, sources insist that corruption and mismanagement persist within the facility.

 Calls for Investigation

The incident highlights concerns about corruption and mistreatment within Nigeria’s correctional system. An investigation is necessary to address these allegations and ensure inmates receive fair treatment.

 Investigation and Reforms

The Nigerian government must launch a thorough investigation into the allegations of corruption and diversion of donations meant for inmates. Reforms are necessary to ensure transparency and accountability within the correctional system.

 Prison Reform Advocacy

Human rights organizations and advocacy groups have long called for prison reforms in Nigeria. Incidents like this underscore the need for systemic change.

Public Reaction

Citizens took to social media to express outrage and demand action. “This is unacceptable,” said one Twitter user. “Those responsible must face justice.”

 Government Action

The Nigerian government must take concrete steps to address corruption and ensure donated resources reach intended beneficiaries.

International Community

The international community should pay attention to Nigeria’s prison system and offer support for reforms.

The protest at Keffi Medium Security Custodial Centre highlights deep-seated issues within Nigeria’s correctional system. Urgent action is needed to address corruption, ensure transparency, and protect inmates’ rights.