December 6, 2024
The House of Representatives has called for a reduction in the number of checkpoints on the Onitsha-Enugu expressway.
It was resolution passed sequel to adoption of a motion by Hon. Amobi Ogah of LP-Abia state, during plenary in Abuja.
Ogah had expressed concern over the current mounting of excessive security checkpoints, which has made it counterproductive and undermined the economic stability.
He said that the house was fully aware of how security agencies were mostly involved in mounting security checkpoints on major roads across the country.
According to the lawmaker the Nigeria Army, Nigeria Police Force, and the Federal Roads Safety Corps FRSC were all involved in mounting the checkpoints.
“It is disturbing that, in a journey of 105 km, there are approximately 28 security checkpoints; that is, at an average of 3.7 km each,” he said.
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The house called on all the security agencies to ensure that security operatives acted within the bounds of the law, and do not use their positions to harass or exploit citizens.
Adopting the motion, the house noted that the mounting of numerous checkpoints along the motorway violated the constitutional rights of Nigerian citizens to free movement.
The House also described it as affront to the dignity of the people, particularly in the South-East, where such levels of militarization were more pronounced.
“It is worrisome that these security checkpoints appeared to be more of a tool for harassment than a genuine effort to ensure security,” it said.
The house urged the various Committees on Defence, Army, Police Affairs and other para-military to dialogue with the Service Chiefs and the Inspector General of Police and other agencies to explore alternative security strategies that would not subject people to undue hardship.
