Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has expressed concern over the reported harassment of travelers at military checkpoints across the state. There have been allegations that military personnel force passengers to disembark from vehicles and cross checkpoints on foot, often with their hands raised, while trucks carrying traders are allowed to pass freely with passengers onboard.
During a meeting of the State Executive Council at the governor’s Nvosi country home, the Security Adviser to Governor Otti, McDonald Ubah, confirmed that the governor had issued a stern warning to security forces to end these practices. “Soon, there will be a regulation correcting that,” Ubah stated, emphasizing that no resident of Abia should endure such degrading treatment at checkpoints. He also pointed out the inconsistency in the practice, suggesting that such actions hinder the relationship between the military and the public, especially when the government relies on the cooperation of the community to gather information on criminal activities.
In addition to addressing the concerns of checkpoint harassment, Ubah reassured the public of the military’s ongoing efforts to maintain safety through “Operation Udoka,” an exercise designed to protect lives and property. He also clarified the situation regarding the relocation of a military checkpoint in the state following the tragic killing of three soldiers last week. The checkpoint had been placed in response to rising crimes, particularly kidnappings, in the area. According to Ubah, while some residents had initially complained about the checkpoint, they later acknowledged its necessity due to the escalating security concerns.
“We have relocated the checkpoint to a more strategic position, closer to the river, to better monitor all routes used by criminals,” Ubah explained. He emphasized that the new location would help prevent criminals from circumventing security by using side roads. He further stated that the Governor had made it clear that no resident of Abia should be subjected to the degrading practice of raising their hands when crossing military checkpoints.
Regarding the closure of a market across the river, Ubah stated that the military had closed it after the perpetrators of a violent attack were believed to have come from that area. He mentioned that the Army had since reopened the road, and now it was up to the Imo State government to take similar action regarding the market.
In response to reports of soldiers forcing civilians to fill sandbags for military protection, Ubah clarified that the state government had provided concrete barriers for the Army’s protection, thereby eliminating the need for such practices. He further assured the public that the military was available to ensure their safety, and that a dedicated three-digit phone line had been established for residents to directly contact the nearest military formation in case of emergency.
Governor Otti’s administration is working to strike a balance between maintaining security and ensuring that the rights and dignity of residents are upheld in the face of ongoing security challenges in the region.
