By Ahmed Usman
A Nigerian resident of Abuja, Mr Isaac Ben Etim, has accused officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, at the Seme border in Badagry, Lagos State, of alleged harassment and extortion involving his sister.
Speaking with journalists, Mr Etim said the incident occurred on Thursday while his sister, Blessing, was returning to Mali after spending the festive season with family members in Nigeria.
According to him, Blessing was reportedly stopped by immigration officers at the Seme border, where she was allegedly handcuffed and detained.
He said she later explained that officers demanded her travel documents, which she presented, including an Ambassade du Nigeria et Burkina Faso identity card and her National Identification Number.
Mr Etim stated that despite presenting valid documents, the officers allegedly accused his sister of travelling for immoral activities.
He further claimed that her mobile phone was seized and searched, but nothing incriminating was found.
He alleged that the situation later escalated into a demand for money, with officers reportedly insisting on a payment of two million naira before she could be allowed to continue her journey.
Mr Etim said the family pleaded with the officers and explained their inability to raise such an amount.
He added that after negotiations, the officers allegedly collected two hundred thousand naira before releasing his sister.
The incident has raised concerns over alleged misconduct by border officials, with calls for the Nigeria Immigration Service authorities to investigate the claims and ensure accountability.
As at the time of this report, the NIS is yet to respond to the allegations.
