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.

Ajaokuta Steel Company’s Sole Administrator, Sumaila Abdul-Akaba, Forced Out Amid EFCC Probe.

Sumaila Abdul-Akaba’s seven-year tenure as the Sole Administrator of Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited has come to an abrupt end, amidst allegations of corruption and mismanagement. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is now investigating Abdul-Akaba, following a petition filed by the Nigeria Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Council (NENYLC).

The petition alleges widespread corruption, including job racketeering, kickbacks, inflated contracts, and diversion of funds meant for the company. An internal memo from the company claims Abdul-Akaba’s departure was due to the completion of his tenure, not resignation. However, sources suggest the EFCC probe was the actual reason for his exit.

 Allegations Against Abdul-Akaba

– Job racketeering
– Kickbacks
– Inflated contracts
– Diversion of company funds

 Next Steps

The Ministry of Steel Development has appointed Kanwai Atungs Joseph, the most senior Engineer and General Manager of Engineering Works, to oversee the company’s affairs until a new Sole Administrator is appointed.

The EFCC has acknowledged receipt of the petition, numbered EFCC/PET/HOR/2914/2024, and is expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations against Abdul-Akaba.

This development raises concerns about corruption and mismanagement in Nigeria’s public sector, highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability.

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.