The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has commenced a formal investigation following the viral spread of a video on social media showing a woman tearing up a Nigerian Standard Passport at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern over its implications for the country’s image and security.
Investigation Underway: NIS Takes Action
In a statement released by NIS Public Relations Officer Kenneth Udo, the Service confirmed that the woman in the video has been identified and summoned for further questioning. The NIS is treating the matter with the utmost seriousness, emphasizing that such actions could constitute a violation of Nigerian law.
Legal Implications: Violation of the Immigration Act 2015
If the allegations are substantiated, the woman’s actions would represent a breach of Section 10(b) of the Immigration Act 2015 (as amended). This section specifically criminalizes the willful destruction, defacement, or alteration of a Nigerian passport, classifying it as a serious offense.
According to the Act, individuals found guilty of violating these provisions could face severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, or both, as detailed in Section 10(h) of the Immigration Act.
NIS Committed to Upholding National Security
In his statement, Udo reiterated the NIS’s dedication to enforcing the law and ensuring the integrity of Nigeria’s legal instruments. He stressed that the Service would take all necessary steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the provisions of the Immigration Act in the interest of national security and preserving the dignity and integrity of the nation’s legal instruments,” Udo stated.
