FG probes passport destruction incident at Lagos Airport

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has initiated an investigation into an incident involving the destruction of a Nigerian passport at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.

The event, captured on video and widely shared on social media, has sparked significant public and official concern. 

 The individual involved in the incident has been identified as Mrs. Favour Igiebor, holding passport number A11990869.

In an official statement, NIS Public Relations Officer Kenneth Udo confirmed that the Comptroller General of Immigration has ordered an inquiry into the matter.

Mrs. Igiebor is expected to be questioned further to ascertain the circumstances leading to the passport’s destruction, NTA first reported. 

The NIS has stated the gravity of the situation, citing that if the allegations are verified, the actions of Mrs. Igiebor could constitute a violation of Section 10(b) of the Immigration Act 2015 (as amended).

This law section prohibits the willful destruction of Nigerian travel documents, with penalties for such offences detailed under Section 10(h) of the same Act. 

Mr. Udo emphasized that the NIS remains committed to enforcing the Immigration Act rigorously to maintain national security and uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s legal and diplomatic instruments.

The service has reassured the public that the investigation will be thorough, and appropriate legal measures will be taken based on the findings. 

Backstory

The incident occurred at Lagos Airport on Saturday, August 10, 2024, when Mrs. Igiebor reportedly tore her husband’s international passport shortly after their arrival in Nigeria.

The video of the event shows a visibly agitated Mrs. Igiebor, who, when questioned about her actions, responded with the remark, “Is it your passport?” .

The scene, which also captured her leading their children away from the airport walkway, has prompted widespread condemnation. 

The destruction of the passport, a document issued by and belonging to the Nigerian government, has been interpreted as an act of vandalism and a serious legal offense.

The footage also shows airport officials attempting to calm the situation, advising Mrs. Igiebor’s husband not to react to the incident. 

Public reactions to the incident have been swift, with many calling for legal action against Mrs. Igiebor for what is seen as a blatant disregard for Nigerian law and property. The case has highlighted broader concerns regarding the enforcement of legal norms and the respect for national symbols and documents. 

As the investigation unfolds, the NIS’s response will be closely watched, with potential legal and diplomatic implications for how such offenses are handled in the future.