By Adadareporters
A group, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), weekend, condemned what it described as “the excessive number of security checkpoints along the Onitsha-Enugu expressway”.
It described it as unconstitutional, dehumanising, and a form of organised punishment on the people of the South East.
HURIWA said this in a release by its national coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko. It expressed concern that the 105-kilometre journey, which should be relatively short, “is marred by the presence of 28 security checkpoints, averaging 3.7 kilometres between each one.”
Quoting HURIWA, “These checkpoints, manned by various security agencies including the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police Force, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), have subjected travellers to constant harassment, delays, and extortion.”
It mentioned some of the locations as Awkuzu Junction, Amawbia Junction, Ugwuoba boundary, Oji River Junction, and Onyeama Hill, adding that the excessive security presence not only inconveniences travellers but also fosters extortion by security personnel.
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.
The group 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 militarization are most pronounced.
HURIWA alleged that these security checkpoints appeared to be more of a tool for harassment than a genuine effort to ensure security, noting that ordinary citizens, especially commercial drivers, are often forced to pay bribes at the checkpoints to avoid delays or harassment.
HURIWA also highlighted that the proliferation of checkpoints along the Onitsha-Enugu expressway is having a detrimental effect on the socio-economic life of the region.
In its words, “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 region’s economy has suffered as constant interruptions discourage economic activity and investment.”
The group argued that while security is important, “the current approach is counterproductive and undermines the economic stability of the South-East”, adding that, “Other regions in Nigeria do not face such excessive security measures.”
The group called on the governors of the South-East states to engage in dialogue with the Service Chiefs and the Inspector General of Police to explore alternative security strategies. 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.
As a way out, HURIWA advocated for the adoption of community-based security initiatives and improved intelligence gathering to 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.
