Nigerian High Commission in UK not involved in extortion — CANUK

The Central Association of Nigerians in the United Kingdom (CANUK) has dismissed allegations circulating on social media that the Nigerian High Commission in London was extorting Nigerians in the processing of Emergency Travel Certificates (ETCs) and Passports.

The association described the claims as inaccurate, misleading, and aimed at creating confusion.

In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Rose Graham, and Assistant Publicity Secretary, Tekena Douglas, CANUK said: “The Central Association of Nigerians in the United Kingdom (CANUK) has noted recent social media reports alleging that the Nigerian High Commission in London is engaging in extortion in the processing of Emergency Travel Certificates (ETCs) and Passports.

“These claims are both inaccurate and misleading. In the interest of clarity and transparency, CANUK wishes to set the record straight.”

The clarification followed a widely circulated video by Dr. Chido A.A, alleging that an Emergency Travel Certificate was issued at a charge of £132. CANUK however outlined the official and statutory fees, which include £120 for an ETC, £12 for optional Royal Mail secure postage, $230 for a 64-page passport booklet, and $150 for a 32-page passport booklet.

“It is important to emphasise that the Emergency Travel Certificate is not ‘an ordinary paper,’ as alleged. Rather, it is a specially printed and crested document bearing the Nigerian Coat of Arms and embedded with security features to ensure authenticity and recognition by airport and border control officials,” the statement added.

With respect to the case raised in the viral video, CANUK confirmed that Dr. Chido applied for ETCs for two individuals. “The total sum of £264 paid (£120 × 2, plus £12 × 2 for secure postage) was therefore accurate, transparent, and fully consistent with the established fee structure,” it explained.

Hon. Judith Akuta, 1st Vice Chair (Passport Matters), also used the opportunity to caution Nigerians in the UK to process all applications directly through the Nigerian High Commission.

“The use of unauthorised intermediaries or channels exposes applicants to misinformation, additional expenses, and unnecessary delays,” she said.

CANUK Chairman, Hon. Ily Maisanda, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to cooperation with the High Commission, pledging continued support for transparency, accountability, and efficient service delivery.

“Speaking on behalf of the Association, CANUK Chairman Hon. Ily Maisanda reaffirmed CANUK’s commitment to fostering cooperation with the High Commission and with Nigerians in the UK to uphold transparency, accountability, and efficient service delivery in the best interests of our community,” the statement noted.

For further clarification, CANUK encouraged Nigerians to reach out directly to Hon. Judith Akuta, 1st Vice Chair (Passport Matters), via email at info@canukonline.com or by phone on +44 7904 262390.