NIS ORDERS PROBE INTO ALLEGED UNLAWFUL DETENTION, SEXUAL ASSAULT BY OFFICER
Read Time:2 Minute, 21 Second
By Aishat Momoh. O.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has ordered a comprehensive investigation into allegations of serious misconduct involving one of its personnel, following an online publication accusing an officer of unlawful detention and sexual assault of a Nigerian woman.
In a statement posted on its official X handle on Thursday, the Service said its attention had been drawn to the report, which detailed allegations of grave violations allegedly committed by an immigration officer.
“The attention of the Nigeria Immigration Service has been drawn towards an online publication alleging grave misconduct by one of its personnel, including claims of unlawful detention and sexual assault involving a Nigerian woman,” the statement read.
The NIS described the allegations as serious and unacceptable, stressing that any act of misconduct by its personnel runs contrary to the values, ethics and professional standards of the Service.
“Any acts of misconduct by any of its personnel is entirely unacceptable and will be treated with the severity they deserve, as they undermine the Service’s values, ethics and professional standards,” it added.
According to the Service, a comprehensive investigation has been ordered to ascertain the facts surrounding the allegations, assuring the public that due process would be followed and accountability ensured.
“The Service has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the allegations, and any personnel found to have engaged in the misconduct will be held accountable, with appropriate disciplinary and legal actions applied,” the statement said.
The NIS further emphasised that it would not shield any officer found culpable, noting that public trust and the protection of citizens’ rights remain central to its mandate.
“The Service will neither shield nor condone any act that undermines public trust or violates the rights and dignity of individuals,” it stated.
The development follows a report by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), which alleged that a 21-year-old woman from Akwa Ibom State was arrested by an immigration officer identified as Isa Makama and detained for several days without due process.
According to the FIJ report, the woman was allegedly held at a private location rather than an official detention facility after an encounter with the officer. The publication further alleged that she was repeatedly sexually assaulted during the period of her detention.
FIJ claimed that the woman’s release was only secured after interventions by concerned individuals who became aware of her situation, raising concerns about abuse of power and the misuse of authority by security personnel.
While the Nigeria Immigration Service did not confirm the specific details of the allegations, it said the ongoing investigation would establish the facts and determine responsibility where necessary.
The case has since sparked public outrage and renewed calls for stricter oversight of security agencies, particularly regarding the treatment of citizens, protection of human rights and accountability of officers accused of abuse.
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