Amidst the sensational story of a woman who tore her husband’s passport after a misunderstanding at the Airport. Though they later reveal it was a skit, there is a need to be fully aware of the importance of understanding the laws governing Nigerian passports…READ FULL ARTICLE...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE ▶▶
There is a huge lack of awareness among many Nigerians about what constitutes an offense involving this crucial national document. The Nigerian passport, a symbol of national identity and international mobility, is protected under stringent regulations stipulated in the Immigration Act of 2015.
Here are the five specific offenses related to the Nigerian passport that every citizen should be aware of to avoid severe penalties.
Unlawful alteration or tampering
Tampering with a passport is a serious offense. This includes any unauthorized changes, mutilations, or alterations to the passport or its pages. Whether it’s an attempt to modify personal details, remove or add pages, or alter expiration dates, such actions can lead to significant legal trouble.
Engaging in such activities is considered a direct violation of passport integrity and can result in a ten-year imprisonment or a hefty fine, reflecting the severity of the crime.
False statements and misrepresentations
Providing false information during the passport application process is another grievous offense. This could involve lying about one’s personal details, citizenship status, or the purpose of the passport application.
Whether attempting to obtain a passport under false pretenses for oneself or another person, this misconduct is taken seriously by authorities. The penalties for such deceit are harsh, serving as a deterrent to anyone contemplating bypassing the legal requisites of passport issuance.
Multiple applications
It is illegal to submit several applications for a passport through one or more passport offices. This offense often stems from an individual’s intent to possess multiple passports, which can be used to facilitate identity fraud or other criminal activities.
Such conduct not only undermines the security protocols set by the immigration authorities but also congests the system, delaying the processing of genuine applicants. Violators are subject to severe legal consequences, including imprisonment.
Concealing the loss of a passport
Failing to report a lost passport is an offense that many might overlook. The law mandates that any loss or theft of a passport be promptly reported to the relevant authorities.
Concealing such an incident or failing to disclose it can lead to complications, including potential misuse of the lost document. Timely reporting helps prevent identity theft and stops unauthorized persons from crossing international borders under your name.
Forgery and trafficking
Possessing, creating, or dealing in forged passports is one of the most severe offenses. Forgery includes altering a legitimate passport or manufacturing a counterfeit one. Trafficking, meanwhile, involves selling or distributing forged passports.
Those caught with a forged passport, especially knowingly, face severe penalties. This law aims to curb the illegal passport market, which can have broader implications for national and international security….READ FULL ARTICLE
