A Nigerian man recently returned from abroad was allegedly shot dead by a customs officer after refusing to pay a ₦5,000 bribe at a checkpoint. The incident, captured in a viral video, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice.
The tragic event reportedly occurred along the Benin-Asaba expressway. Eyewitnesses claim that customs officers stopped a commercial bus and demanded a ₦5,000 bribe. Upon refusal, an altercation ensued, leading to the fatal shooting of the returnee. Videos circulating online depict a chaotic scene, with passengers confronting the officers and expressing shock over the killing.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a statement denying that the deceased was a passenger. According to NCS spokesperson Joseph Attah, the victim was a “good citizen” who assisted customs officers and was accidentally shot during a struggle between officers and passengers. The NCS expressed regret over the incident and stated that an investigation is underway .
This incident has reignited discussions about corruption and abuse of power within Nigerian law enforcement agencies. The NCS has faced previous allegations of bribery and misconduct, with Transparency International reporting that over half of Nigerian households surveyed in 2009 admitted to paying bribes to customs officers .
Human rights organizations have condemned the killing, calling for a thorough investigation and accountability. They emphasize the need for systemic reforms to address corruption and ensure the protection of citizens’ rights .
The public outcry has been amplified by social media, with many Nigerians expressing frustration over the perceived impunity of law enforcement officers. The hashtag #JusticeForReturnee has been trending, with users demanding swift action against those responsible.
As investigations continue, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reforms within Nigeria’s security agencies to restore public trust and uphold the rule of law.
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