Amb. Amadi
..Demands Audit, Sanctions for Extortion by Security Personnel
Edited by Blue Economy Magazine
Abuja, Nigeria – The Accident Prevention and Rescue Initiative (APRI), a road safety-focused Non-Governmental Organization, has joined other civil society groups and concerned Nigerians to demand the immediate removal of excessive security checkpoints on the nation’s highways, with particular emphasis on the South-East.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Amb. Fidelis Nnadi, APRI urged the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, and heads of other security agencies to monitor and audit the activities of personnel at various checkpoints, especially in the South-East, where there are widespread allegations of extortion.
“Reports indicate that many of these checkpoints now function more as unauthorized revenue collection points than as tactical security posts. This has led to increased transport and food costs, delays, and hardship for road users,” the group stated.
While acknowledging the legitimate mandate of security agencies to protect lives and property, particularly in the fight against kidnapping and violent crime, APRI expressed concern that some operatives have turned checkpoints into avenues for extortion, arbitrary delays, humiliation, and abuse.
“The density and proliferation of checkpoints have been weaponized to systematically extort motorists, commercial transporters, and disrupt the movement of goods and services,” APRI alleged.
The group said it has been inundated with complaints from motorists, farmers, traders, transporters, and civil society organizations regarding extortion on the highways.
“The IGP, military authorities, and other security agencies should immediately audit all checkpoints nationwide, with priority on the five South-East states. Details of their locations, operational necessity, authorization, and personnel should be made public.
“Checkpoints without clear security justification must be dismantled. Personnel found demanding or collecting money from road users should face disciplinary and criminal proceedings. The constitutional rights to dignity and freedom of movement remain in force. Nigeria is not under emergency rule.
“Governors of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States should demand accountability from security agencies operating within their states.
Security agencies must embrace professionalism, respect for human rights, and accountability.
“The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) should partner with the Nigeria Police to take over highway management and end the activities of non-state actors posing as revenue collectors.
“APRI will sustain and intensify its campaign against checkpoint extortion and other human rights abuses perpetrated by security agencies on our highways,” the statement concluded.
