Nigerians traveling between Nigeria and Benin Republic have raised alarm over what they describe as persistent harassment and extortion by officers of the Nigeria Customs Service at the Seme border.
The aggrieved motorists are appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister of Finance, Comptroller-General of Customs, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Nigerian Embassy in Benin Republic, and the National Assembly Committees on Customs to urgently intervene in what they say has become a nightmare for travelers.
The Nigeria Yoruba community in the diaspora has also expressed concern, saying it is closely monitoring the development and stands in solidarity with victims of the alleged extortion.
How the Bond System Works
By regulation, private motorists entering Nigeria with foreign number plates are required to pay a refundable “bond.” The amount, determined by the car’s value, serves as collateral to ensure that the vehicle is not sold in Nigeria. Upon exiting, the motorist is supposed to receive a full refund immediately.
In addition, travelers must obtain a laissez-passer—a temporary movement permit—either at the border or directly from the Nigerian Embassy in Benin Republic. The official fee ranges between ₦5,000 and ₦10,000, and the document should be signed by the Nigerian Ambassador or Head of Mission.
Customs Officers Accused of Exploitation
Motorists allege that Customs officials have turned this system into a money-making scheme.
If a traveler’s return falls on a weekend, officials allegedly delay bond refunds until Monday, demanding 10% of the deposit before releasing the funds.
The laissez-passer fee, instead of the approved ₦5,000–₦10,000, is said to be inflated to between ₦70,000 and ₦100,000, depending on the traveler’s appearance or the value of their car.
Even with valid documents issued by the Nigerian Embassy, Customs officers are accused of still imposing “unofficial levies,” such as money for officers on duty and for the Comptroller-General.
“These unnecessary demands have turned the Seme border into a fearful and frustrating zone for many Nigerians,” a motorist lamented.
Victims Share Their Ordeal
Speaking with D Reportorial Media, Mr. Adewoyin Adeyinka and Alhaji Mojeed Ibrahim recounted their bitter experiences while visiting family in Agbara on September 1, 2025.
Alhaji Ibrahim said that despite paying the required bond, he was compelled to pay additional charges before he could cross.
“This harassment has been ongoing for too long. We have reported to the Nigerian Embassy in Benin Republic several times, and though efforts have been made, nothing has changed,” he lamented.
Adeyinka shared a similar experience, describing the extortion as “disheartening and humiliating for Nigerians who only want to see their families or conduct lawful business.”
Diplomatic Gaps Worsening the Problem
Stakeholders say part of the challenge in addressing the issue is the absence of a Nigerian Ambassador in Benin Republic. In addition, the Nigerian Embassy and the Customs Service fall under different ministries, making coordination and accountability more difficult.
Call for Urgent Action
Nigerians in the diaspora, including the Yoruba community abroad, along with frequent border users are therefore calling on President Tinubu and other relevant authorities to act decisively. They stress that without urgent intervention, the situation will continue to discourage Nigerians abroad from traveling home with their vehicles, hurting both family ties and cross-border economic activities.
