The Abia State Government has pledged to investigate allegations of discriminatory practices by soldiers at military checkpoints across the state. Reports suggest that some soldiers have been demanding that commuters alight and walk across checkpoints, while vehicles from certain regions are allowed to pass without such scrutiny.
In a statement following a State Executive Council meeting in Umuahia, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (retd.), emphasized that Governor Alex Otti had made it clear to military authorities that Abians should not be subjected to raising their hands at checkpoints. Ubah also noted that such practices have now ceased in the state.
Commander Ubah condemned recent attacks on security personnel by unknown gunmen and reassured the public that the government is collaborating with security agencies to prevent retaliatory actions against innocent civilians. He added that new checkpoint regulations are being developed to improve relations between road users and the military.
Regarding allegations that residents of Ekenobizi were forced to clear bushes around a relocated checkpoint near Onuimo Bridge, Ubah clarified that the community voluntarily assisted the military in this task. He also explained that the re-establishment of military checkpoints on the Umuahia-Onuimo Bridge road was due to rising criminal activities, including kidnappings.
To improve communication and foster trust between the military and civilians, the Nigerian Army has introduced a 3-digit emergency line, 193, which residents can use to request military assistance.
“No inch of Abia will be ceded to criminals,” Ubah assured, urging residents to remain confident in their safety and security.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, particularly during the festive season. He highlighted the ongoing military operation, Udo Ka, aimed at bolstering security throughout the state.
Kanu also announced a ban on unauthorized free medical missions in the state, citing past abuses. All such activities will now require approval from the Commissioner for Health to ensure that unregulated medical outreach programs do not harm residents.
