Daud Olatunji
Clients seeking passport services at the Ogun state National Immigration Service (NIS) office have voiced their frustrations over the prolonged and alleged corrupt process they must endure to obtain their travel documents.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that applicants face a waiting period of up to three months before their passport applications are processed, with allegations of a N10,000 bribe required to expedite the process.
According to sources within the state immigration office, the situation has deteriorated since the appointment of the new Passport Control Officer (PCO), Kazeem Shodipe.
Several employees, speaking anonymously, accused Shodipe of mismanagement, embezzlement of funds, and neglect of duty, resulting in undue hardship for applicants.
Applicants have echoed these sentiments, describing their experiences as harrowing and challenging.
Many recount enduring long waits and oppressive conditions within the office, with some alleging that they have been close to collapsing due to the stifling heat.
One of the grave allegations against Shodipe is the purported misappropriation of N5 million allocated for the operation of the Abeokuta passport office.
It is alleged that Shodipe embezzled these funds, leaving the office ill-equipped and the public suffering.
However, in response to these accusations, Shodipe vehemently denied any wrongdoing.
He refuted claims of soliciting bribes from applicants, stating that he only expedites applications in cases of genuine urgency, such as medical emergencies or religious pilgrimages.
Shodipe dismissed the allegations against him as malicious and baseless, emphasizing his readiness to address any complaints brought against him.
Shodipe challenged the validity of the accusations, urging those making allegations to provide evidence to substantiate their claims.
He reiterated his commitment to transparency and accountability, asserting that he is prepared to defend himself against any unfounded allegations.
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