EFCC Clears Immigration Chief of Visa Fraud Allegations

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially denied any connection between Kemi Nandap, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and ongoing investigations into alleged visa racketeering. 

In a statement issued by Dele Oyewale, the Head of Media and Publicity at the EFCC, the agency clarified that while it is probing certain immigration officers for visa fraud, Nandap is not under investigation. The statement sought to dispel media reports that had linked her to the allegations.

"The EFCC is aware of the insinuations regarding the investigation of the Immigration CG. We want to state unequivocally that there is no case involving her," the statement reads. 

Despite this clarification, the EFCC confirmed that criminal proceedings are already underway against several immigration officers in the Federal High Court concerning visa fraud. The ongoing investigations could potentially lead to additional charges against more officers within the NIS.

The allegations include claims that some immigration officers improperly collected fees from visa overstayers instead of enforcing penalties outlined in the Nigeria Visa Policy 2025, which mandates fines of $15 per day for overstaying. 

Further allegations suggest that investigators are examining approximately N700 million linked to one officer's account, alongside another officer facing scrutiny over properties allegedly acquired through third parties.

The EFCC emphasized the importance of accurate reporting, urging journalists and media outlets to verify information directly with the agency to prevent misrepresentation of its activities.

The clarification arises in the wake of a growing public interest in the integrity of immigration processes and the actions of officials tasked with upholding these regulations. 

As investigations continue, the EFCC remains committed to transparency and accountability in its operations, underscoring that the Immigration CG is not part of the ongoing inquiries.

This incident highlights the need for rigorous oversight within government agencies and the importance of public trust in law enforcement institutions.

For further updates, the EFCC encourages the public and media to stay informed through official channels. 

*Reporting by Solomon Odeniyi, Punch Newspapers*