The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed reports linking the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, to an ongoing investigation into alleged visa fraud, stating that she is not under probe.
In a statement issued by the Commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC clarified that while investigations into alleged visa racketeering involving some serving immigration officers are ongoing, the NIS Comptroller-General has no connection with the cases.
The anti-graft agency said the clarification became necessary following media reports and online insinuations suggesting that Nandap was being investigated over an alleged visa overstay racketeering scheme.
“The Commission wishes to state unequivocally that it has no case with the Immigration Comptroller-General,” the EFCC said, stressing that Nandap is “not remotely connected” to any of the ongoing investigations.
The Commission, however, confirmed that criminal proceedings are already pending before the Federal High Court against some officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service over alleged visa fraud. It added that investigations remain active and could lead to the prosecution of more officers found to have engaged in fraudulent practices.
According to the EFCC, the investigation centres on allegations that some immigration officers illegally collected money from foreign nationals who overstayed their visas instead of enforcing the penalties prescribed under the Nigeria Visa Policy. Investigators are also examining financial transactions and assets allegedly linked to some of the suspects.
The Commission urged journalists and media organisations to verify information with the EFCC before publication to avoid the spread of misleading reports and ensure accurate reporting of its activities.
