…Urges Constitutional Security Measures in South-East Nigeria
By Ikenwa Charity
As number of Security personnel kicks on the rise in South East of the country, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, (HURIWA) Sunday, condemned the deployment of such numbers, as well as the increasing checkpoints along the Onitsha-Enugu expressway.
In a press statement, by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA emphasised that the mounting of numerous checkpoints along the expressway violates the constitutional right of Nigerian citizens to free movement, as enshrined in Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution.
It argued that the excessive number of roadblocks is a direct affront to the dignity of the people, particularly in the South-East, where such levels of militarisation are most pronounced.
The group described the ongoing as being unconstitutional, dehumanising, and a form of organised punishment on the people of the South-East.
HURIWA expressed concern that the “105-kilometer journey, which should be relatively short, is marred by the presence of 28 security checkpoints, averaging 3.7 kilometers between each one.”
“These checkpoints, manned by various security agencies including the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police Force, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, have subjected travelers to constant harassment, delays, and extortion. The association condemned this practice as archaic, colonial, and oppressive, suggesting it paints a picture of the region as being under siege,” it stated.
Key locations along the expressway that were outlined concerning the purported checkpoints include; Awkuzu Junction, Amawbia Junction, Ugwuoba boundary, Oji River Junction, and Onyeama Hill.
The association again, want ahead to expressed concern that this excessive security presence not only inconveniences travelers but also fosters extortion by security personnel.
HURIWA stated that these security checkpoints appear to be more of a tool for harassment than a genuine effort to ensure security, claiming that ordinary citizens, especially commercial drivers, are often forced to pay bribes at the checkpoints to avoid delays or harassment, which such practices also contribute to the erosion of trust between citizens and security agencies.
Also, the association projected the proliferation of checkpoints along the Onitsha-Enugu expressway is having a detrimental effect on the socio-economic life of the region.
“As a major commercial route, the delays caused by the checkpoints have significantly impacted businesses and traders who rely on the road for transporting goods. The association noted that the region’s economy has suffered as constant interruptions discourage economic activity and investment,” the statement read.
The group argued that while security is important, the current approach is counterproductive and undermines the economic stability of the South-East. HURIWA emphasised that other regions in Nigeria do not face such excessive security measures, questioning why the South-East is treated differently.
Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA called on the governors of the South-East to engage in dialogue with the Service Chiefs and the Inspector General of Police to explore alternative security strategies, as the association stressed that there are modern and efficient methods of maintaining security without subjecting the people to undue hardship or violating their constitutional rights.
HURIWA advocated for the adoption of community-based security initiatives and improved intelligence gathering, which it believes would be more effective in addressing security concerns in the region. The group also called for better coordination between local law enforcement and communities to ensure a more targeted and humane approach to security.
HURIWA further urged the National Assembly to review the current operations of security agencies in the South-East, particularly along the Onitsha-Enugu expressway. The association called for strict oversight to ensure that security operatives act within the bounds of the law and do not use their positions to harass or exploit citizens.
The group further posited for accountability, stating that the activities of security personnel at these checkpoints must be closely monitored to prevent abuse of power. HURIWA demanded that security agencies be held accountable for any actions that violate the rights of citizens.
It then reiterated its urgent call for an immediate review of the security situation along the Onitsha-Enugu expressway, emphasing the need for a review of the current pattern of mounting security checkpoints, which the group again condemned vehemently, describing it as unconstitutional and must be addressed urgently.
HURIWA added, “The South-East governors and the federal government should collaborate in developing alternative security strategies that respect the rights and dignity of the people.”
End.
