South-East commuters decry overbearing security checkpoints

Mr. Kelechi Okoro, a driver with a transport company, expressed his frustration over the challenges faced by motorists in the South-East due to an overwhelming presence of military and police operatives. Okoro shared his discontent, emphasizing the inconvenience caused by numerous checkpoints along the route from Awka to Enugu.

During a recent journey along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, this reporter encountered an extensive network of checkpoints, including those manned by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), navy, and mobile police. A staggering count of at least 20 checkpoints was identified within a 50-kilometer stretch from Awka to Enugu, creating constant traffic disruptions.

While the heightened security measures could be attributed to regional insecurity, the conduct of security personnel exacerbates the situation. Commuters, including Mr. Okoro and Mr. Celestine Ugwunnwa, voiced their concerns about the inefficiency of these checkpoints. They criticized the security operatives for creating traffic snarls without conducting meaningful security checks, often relying on “errand boys” to collect money from motorists.

Despite acknowledging the security challenges in the South-East, passengers questioned the effectiveness of such punitive policing tactics. Mr. Ugwunnwa highlighted the need for a more strategic and less disruptive approach to address security concerns in the region.

The article also recalls an incident involving Anambra State Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachi Ibezim, who clashed with military personnel at a roadblock during the 2022 Christmas season. The Deputy Governor ordered the removal of roadblocks to facilitate smooth traffic flow, but the checkpoints reappeared shortly after.

As the yuletide season approaches, concerns arise about the potential exploitation of increased traffic by security operatives manning checkpoints. The article concludes by posing questions about the efficacy of current security strategies in the South-East, suggesting that alternative approaches need consideration to address insecurity without subjecting commuters to punitive roadblocks.