The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has ordered a comprehensive investigation into allegations of misconduct involving one of its personnel following an online report 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 a publication alleging grave misconduct, including unlawful detention and sexual assault.
Describing the allegations as serious, the NIS said any act of misconduct by its personnel was unacceptable and contrary to its values, ethics and professional standards.
“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 said.
It added that any personnel found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary and legal consequences.
“The Service has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the allegations, and any personnel found to have engaged in the misconduct will be held accountable and appropriate disciplinary and legal actions will be applied,” it stated.
The NIS further stressed that it would neither shield nor condone any act that undermines public trust or violates the rights and dignity of individuals.
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The statement followed a report by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) alleging 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 report, the woman was allegedly confined at a private location rather than an official detention facility and subjected to repeated assaults during her detention. The publication further claimed that her release was secured only after interventions by individuals who became aware of her situation.
The NIS, however, said it could not confirm the details of the allegations at this stage, noting that investigations had been initiated to establish the facts and ensure accountability where necessary.