Nigerian Nationals Decry Harassment and Extortion by Police at JKIA

Nigerians have taken to social media to decry what they termed as harassment and extortion at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

Through Twitter, several Nigerian nationals shared their nasty experiences, saying they were profiled by police and other officials upon landing at the Nairobi-based airport.

One of the Twitter user identified as Eshemoha claims he was taken straight to a police station where he was searched for narcotics before being asked to part with a $50 bribe.

“Landed in Nairobi and first thing na police station straight! Guy literally saw my passport and asked me to step aside. Delayed and searched me for narcotics after I refused to part with 50usd,” Eshemoha tweeted.

Another user Bamsi Beyrek says he received a similar treatment and had to part with a $20 bribe.

“Na their way. First time too, I negotiated and parted with $20. I was fasting, slept in the office the previous night working and I just wanted to go to my hotel, eat and sleep. So I just cut my losses and gave the werey $20,” he wrote.

Alex, also a Nigerian, claims he was victimized for being in possession of a Louis Vuitton bag and wristwatches. He was let go after paying a $100 bribe.

“Was there last year. Same situation. What’s my crime? I had a Louis Vuitton bag and some brand name wristwatches in my bag. They told me straight to my face that’s the reason they are holding. Gave them 100$ usd and was set free. This is a place I have visited a lot. Still love em (sic),” he tweeted.

Godfrey Nwanekah wrote: “I was held for close to three hours before one of them asked me to pay $50 so i wont miss my connecting flight, i had to give them €20 just to allow me to leave. I no longer fly through Kenya, i rather fly via Doha etc. The officials have perfected harassment & extortion.”

“Honestly kenyans are the nicest people I've been with… But that their police is the only issue, they specifically look for Nigerians to harass and forcefully collect bribe from,” Douglas tweeted.

Oladapo M. Dalumo posted: “I was on an official trip with my colleague, he was arrested at Jomo Kenyatta Airport Nairobi cos he was wearing a gold chain. By the time he was released he was sad cos of what he saw while with the immigration guys. Our boys no dey try at all!!!”

“I had a similar experience in Nairobi. I was asked to give 100USD, it didn't make sense to me cos I did nothing. I was taken to the police office and delays for over 90 minutes. Only Nigerians were arrested,” Osilojo Opeyemi said.