The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has denied allegations by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan that its officers seized her international passport at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Service’s spokesperson, the NIS described the claim as “false and misleading,” insisting that at no point did its personnel confiscate the senator’s travel documents.
“We never seized her passport. The senator was only subjected to routine immigration checks, as required by law for all passengers departing or arriving in the country,” the statement read.
According to the Service, the incident was being exaggerated to create unnecessary tension, adding that its officers acted professionally throughout the encounter.
The NIS further clarified that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s travel documents were returned to her immediately after verification and that no official order was given to detain or restrict her movement.
“We uphold the rights of all Nigerian citizens, regardless of status, and remain committed to ensuring smooth immigration procedures at all ports of entry,” the statement added.
The clarification follows reports that the senator accused immigration officers of illegally withholding her passport, an allegation that sparked widespread criticism and calls for investigation.
Observers say the denial by the NIS seeks to quell public speculation and reaffirm the Service’s neutrality amid rising political tensions
