The House of Representatives, on Thursday, voiced strong concerns over the excessive number of security checkpoints along the Onitsha-Enugu Expressway and the extortion of commercial drivers operating on the route.
In response, the House called on all security agencies to reduce the number of checkpoints along the road and ensure that security personnel adhere to legal standards, refraining from harassing or exploiting citizens.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Amobi Oga, who sought the House’s intervention in addressing the issue.
Highlights of the Motion
During his debate, Hon. Oga emphasized the negative impact of the numerous checkpoints on travelers and the economy.
- Overview of Checkpoints: Hon. Oga highlighted that the 105-kilometer stretch between Onitsha and Enugu hosts approximately 28 checkpoints, averaging one every 3.7 kilometers. Key locations include Awkuzu Junction, Amawbia Junction, Ugwuoba Boundary, Oji River Junction, and Onyeama Hill.
- Constitutional Violations: He pointed out that such checkpoints infringe on Nigerians’ constitutional right to free movement, as enshrined in Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
- Harassment and Extortion: The lawmaker lamented that commercial drivers are subjected to harassment, undue delays, and extortion, often being forced to pay bribes to avoid further inconvenience.
- Economic Consequences: Oga argued that these practices increase the cost of transportation and goods, disrupt regional socio-economic activities, and deter investments in the South-East.
Recommendations
The House emphasized the importance of security but stressed that the current approach is counterproductive and economically destabilizing. It called for the adoption of modern, efficient security strategies that minimize hardship for citizens.
To address these concerns, the House resolved to:
- Engage Security Leadership: Mandate the joint Committees on Defence, Army, and Police Affairs to hold discussions with Service Chiefs and the Inspector General of Police to explore alternative security strategies that ensure safety without undue hardship.
- Regulate FRSC Checkpoints: Direct the Committee on Road Safety to liaise with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to regulate the number of its checkpoints on the expressway.
- Promote Community-Based Security: Instruct the Committee on National Security to advocate for community-driven security initiatives and improved intelligence gathering to address regional security concerns effectively.
- Enhance Oversight: Task the joint Committees on Defence, Police Affairs, and National Security with intensified oversight to ensure that security personnel act within legal bounds and refrain from harassing or exploiting citizens.
Call for Reforms
Hon. Oga reiterated that modern security measures, such as advanced surveillance systems and community-based strategies, could achieve greater effectiveness without disrupting the lives of citizens. The House expressed its commitment to addressing the issue comprehensively to safeguard the rights and well-being of Nigerians, especially in the South-East.
The resolution underscores the lawmakers’ resolve to strike a balance between ensuring security and promoting the economic and social welfare of the affected communities.
