Several Nigerian security officers, including personnel from Customs and Immigration services, revealed that the government owes them over 30 months of allowances.
These officers, deployed to the borders particularly in Kwara State, say they have been working under these conditions for five years, dating back to the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.
The non-payment of allowances has pushed many of them into financial hardship and debt. “When we were deployed here, we were promised additional allowances alongside our salaries,” one of the officers told BBC Hausa. “But for 30 months now, we haven’t seen a kobo, despite working under dangerous conditions on the borders.”
Deployment Beyond Standard Term
The officer pointed out that their deployment has exceeded the typical two-and-a-half-year term. “It’s standard for deployments like this not to last more than two to two-and-a-half years,” he explained. “Yet, here we are, stuck at the border for five years with no end in sight and no allowances to show for it.”
The officers said failure to address this issue has not only caused financial strain but has also created morale problems among the officers, some of whom have resorted to corrupt practices.
“Because of the extreme financial pressure, a few among us have sadly turned to corruption to make ends meet. It’s a direct consequence of the government’s neglect,” the officer revealed.
Impact on Security
In addition to the financial struggles, the officer noted that the non-payment of allowances is affecting the country’s broader security efforts.
Another officer noted “We are dealing with serious security threats along the borders, particularly in areas like Kwara. Some of our colleagues have been killed, others have been victims of theft, yet there is no support from the government.”
The officer pointed out that soldiers and security officers stationed in high-risk zones like Maiduguri are receiving their full entitlements, unlike those stationed at the borders. “The soldiers in Maiduguri are being paid, but we are left stranded in dangerous territories with no allowances. It’s disheartening and unfair,” he cried out.
According to him, the officers called on the Nigerian Customs and Immigration authorities and other relevant agencies to urgently address their plight. “We have been patient for too long. We ask the government and the agencies responsible to pay us our rightful allowances and transfer us from these border posts. No one should be kept in such conditions for five years.
“We are risking our lives daily, but the government has abandoned us. It’s time for those in charge to be held accountable and for our allowances to be paid.”
The prolonged non-payments leave the security officers in dire straits, compromising both their morale and the nation’s security.
WikkiTimes’ effort to reaching out to the Nigerian Customs Service for a response regarding the claims was not fruitful. There is no reply to the email sent by the time of publication.
