Nigerian MP Decries Extortion, Corruption In ECOWAS COVID-19 Scrutiny

A Nigerian Parliamentarian at the ongoing Extra-Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament in Lome, Togo, Hon. Chukwuma Umeoji has decried what he described as the high level of extortion and corruption across the sub-region while scrutinising the COVID-19 status of traveller at entry points.

He said though, the scrutiny which is not only for Parliamentarians but for the entire ECOWAS citizens is appalling and disgusting as people are delayed unnecessarily despite presenting their certificates of immunization and other requirements.

“That type of scrutiny is a hindrance to the spirit of ECOWAS which involves free movement of goods and services (Persons).

“When you have such a delay, it is discouraging even for foreign investors to think about coming to West Africa. So, we have to look into it.“In some instances, you are made to part with five or ten dollars before you are attended to or delayed unnecessarily.

“This is the corruption we are talking about that must be discouraged as it is not obtainable in other climes” he said.

The lawmaker however, suggested ways to tackle the menace.

“The way forward is to adopt the procedures as it is done in other countries in Europe, once you have your COVID-19 card, everything is captured there, it gives you access to enter the country”, he said.