NIRA Official Arrested in Soroti for National ID Extortion

Joshua Ekude, an official affiliated with the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) in Soroti, is currently in custody after being accused of demanding illicit payments from individuals applying for national identity cards. The apprehension was the result of a sting operation orchestrated by the Soroti Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Imran Muluya, in conjunction with the District Internal Security Officer (DISO) and local police.

The RDC’s office reported receiving multiple grievances from the public, detailing allegations of NIRA officials soliciting payments despite clear government directives that the issuance of national IDs should be a free service. Initial attempts to address these concerns through meetings with NIRA officials and community representatives reportedly failed to halt the alleged illegal practices.

Authorities initiated an intelligence-led investigation after reports surfaced indicating that Ekude and possibly others were demanding money not only for new registrations but also for corrections and other related services. RDC Muluya emphasized that while replacing lost cards or correcting personal details may incur official fees, the initial registration process remains free of charge.

Muluya issued a stern warning, stating that any public servant found exploiting citizens will face severe repercussions. He underscored the importance of free, transparent, and fair service delivery for all Ugandans.

Ekude is being held at Katine Central Police Station, where investigators from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) are collecting statements and evidence to build a case for prosecution. This arrest occurs during NIRA’s ongoing nationwide registration and renewal exercise, a period that typically sees a high volume of applicants.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)