EFCC Clears Immigration Boss Nandap, Says Visa Fraud Probe Targets Other Officers
Daniel Ojukwu
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, insisting she is not under investigation.
The anti-graft agency said media reports suggesting that Nandap was being probed alongside some immigration officers were false and did not reflect the true position of its investigation.
In a statement issued by its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC stated that its current investigation is focused on certain officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service allegedly involved in visa racketeering and related fraudulent activities.
According to the commission, there is no case against the Comptroller-General, stressing that she has not been implicated in any aspect of the ongoing investigation.
The agency, however, confirmed that criminal cases involving some immigration officers are already pending before the Federal High Court, where they are facing prosecution over alleged visa fraud.
The EFCC disclosed that investigations are still ongoing and may result in additional officers being charged if fresh evidence emerges during the course of the probe.
While clearing Nandap of any wrongdoing, the commission reiterated its commitment to thoroughly investigating all allegations of corruption within public institutions, regardless of the individuals involved.
It also cautioned media organisations against publishing unverified reports, urging journalists to seek clarification directly from the commission before linking public officials to ongoing investigations.
The EFCC said inaccurate reports have the potential to damage reputations and mislead members of the public, particularly in sensitive investigations involving government agencies.
The commission maintained that its investigation into alleged visa fraud within the Nigeria Immigration Service remains active and assured Nigerians that anyone found culpable would face prosecution in accordance with the law.
It reaffirmed its resolve to continue tackling corruption and other financial crimes while ensuring that innocent public officials are not wrongly associated with investigations in which they have no involvement.