By Adadareporters
Youths under the aegis of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Enugu State chapter, Tuesday, tasked the state commissioner of police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, to check the excesses of policemen manning various checkpoints, especially in the state metropolis.
The state chairman of the group, Comr Bartholomew Ebuka Okoh, in a statement, drew the attention of the CP to the fact that the excesses of the operatives manning the checkpoints are rampant “between 7:30pm – 9pm daily”.
He listed the affected areas to include Monkey Roundabout, Independence Layout, Lomalinda Estate, Sabbath Bus Stop New Heaven, H.R.C Checkpoints, Police Detective Checkpoints by Uwani, and Otigba Roundabout.
The release read in part, “The current situation, where citizens are delayed for 18-25 minutes, consuming fuel in this critical situation and potentially falling prey to late-night risks, is unacceptable. Keke drivers and mini-bus operators are disproportionately affected, facing prolonged delays that jeopardize their safety as many have fallen victims of having their mini-buses and Keke seized due to violating the state government’s 9pm ‘stop driving movement directive’.”
The group commended the state governor, Mr Peter Mbah, for his willingness to partner with the Nigeria Police Trust Fund to revamp police training institutions, and charged the police commissioner to emphasize professionalism and community-oriented policing.
The group advised the CP to streamline checkpoint procedures by implementing efficient protocols to minimize delays, as well as enhance officer training.
They told the CP to “Focus on community engagement, empathy, and conflict resolution; ensure periodic inspections to maintain high standards”, adding g that, “By addressing these issues, the CP would have enhanced harmony of Ndi Enugu youths and all citizens.”
