The House of Representatives has called on
security agencies to reduce the number of checkpoints on the Onitsha-Enugu
expressway.
The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a
motion by Rep. Amobi Ogah (LP-Abia), during plenary in Abuja.
Presenting the motion, Ogah expressed concern over the
current approach of mounting excessive security checkpoints, adding that it was
counterproductive and undermined the economic stability of the region.
He said that the house was fully aware that the
security agencies in Nigeria were mostly involved in mounting security
checkpoints on the nation’s major roads.
The lawmaker said that they included the Nigeria Army,
Nigeria Police Force, and the Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC).
“It is disturbing that, in a journey of 105 km, there
are approximately 28 security checkpoints; that is, at an average of 3.7 km
each,” he said.
The house called on all the security agencies to
ensure that security operatives acted within the bounds of the law, and do not
use their positions to harass or exploit citizens.
Adopting the motion, the house noted that the mounting
of numerous checkpoints along the motorway violated the constitutional rights
of Nigerian citizens to free movement.
The House also directed affront to the dignity of the
people, particularly in the South-East, where such levels of militarisation
were more pronounced.
“It is worrisome that these security checkpoints
appeared to be more of a tool for harassment than a genuine effort to ensure
security,” it said.
The house urged the Joint Committees on Defence, Army,
and Police Affairs, to dialogue with the Service Chiefs and the Inspector
General of Police, to explore alternative security strategies that would not
subject people to undue hardship.
It also mandated its Committee on Road Safety to
dialogue with the FRSC Corp Marshal, with a view to regulating the number of
its checkpoints on the Onitsha-Enugu Motorway.
The lawmakers urged its Committee on National Security
to engage its relevant agencies and advocate for community-based security
initiatives and improved intelligence gathering.
This, according to the lawmakers , would effectively
address regional security concerns, other than the use of excessive security
checkpoints on the motorway.
Members mandated the joint Committees of Defence,
Police Affairs, and National Security, to intensify strict oversight to ensure
that security operatives act within the bounds of the law. (NAN)
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