A shocking incident at an immigration checkpoint near North Bank in Benue State has ignited widespread outrage and calls for accountability. A Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) officer, identified as Nasiru Haruna, has been accused of extorting ₦12,000 from a passenger traveling with Victoria Travels from Makurdi to Abuja.
According to eyewitnesses, the victim was singled out due to his dreadlocks and tattoos. Haruna reportedly demanded a National Identity Card, and when the young man failed to present one, the officer allegedly threatened to abandon him unless he paid. The passenger eventually transferred ₦12,000 to Haruna’s Opay account before being allowed back onto the vehicle.
The case came to light when human rights activist Ukan Kurugh, alerted by another passenger, confronted Haruna directly. Initially denying the allegations, the officer later requested the victim’s bank details for a refund. However, the situation escalated when a voice in the background was heard saying, “Nothing that nig*er can do, guy. Tell him to do his worst.”
Kurugh condemned the act as “a shameful abuse of power,” describing the North Bank checkpoint as notorious for harassment and extortion. He demanded an immediate refund of the money and disciplinary action against Haruna, warning that failure to act would force him to pursue legal steps.
This incident has renewed public concern over corruption and intimidation at security checkpoints nationwide, sparking heated discussions on social media and calls for systemic reform within the NIS. As the situation unfolds, authorities are under pressure to address the allegations and restore public trust.
*Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
