The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has cleared Nigeria Immigration Service Comptroller-General, Kemi Nandap, over an alleged involvement in visa fraud.
The EFCC discloded that the reports linking Nandap to a probe into fraudulent visa activities were inaccurate and did not represent the true state of its investigation, stating that it’s inquiry is focused on some immigration officers accused of abusing the visa processing system, with Nandap not listed among the officials under investigation.
The anti-graft agency, in a statement released on Tuesday, reiterated that its focus remains on individuals accused of manipulating visa processes rather than the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service.
According to the commission, the legal proceedings have already started against some officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service over alleged involvement in visa-related offences.
Moreover, the agency said the cases before the Federal High Court form part of efforts to address corruption within immigration operations and strengthen confidence in the country’s visa administration process.
“The judicial process is already underway against certain officers, and the courts will determine the outcome based on the evidence presented,” the agency stated.
However, the EFCC noted that investigations into the wider visa fraud allegations remain ongoing, with detectives reviewing additional information and assessing the roles of other individuals connected to the alleged misconduct.
The commission warned that any officer found to have compromised the immigration system would face prosecution, regardless of position or status.
“Our investigators are following all available leads. Anyone found to have compromised the system will be held accountable under the law,” the EFCC said.
The clarification followed reports that had created public concern over the possible involvement of the immigration chief in the visa fraud case.
Stressing further, the commission said while the investigation into suspected fraudulent practices within the immigration service remains active, there is no evidence linking Nandap to the alleged offences.
It also urged media organisations to rely on verified information from official sources when reporting on ongoing investigations to avoid spreading misleading claims.
“Accurate reporting is essential to maintaining public trust. We encourage media practitioners to obtain clarification whenever questions arise regarding our activities,” the commission added.