Dailyreport
In the South East of Nigeria, a troubling reality is unfolding on the roads. Security checkpoints, ostensibly set up to protect citizens, have instead become sites of rampant extortion and harassment. Travelers—especially those driving along major routes like those between Enugu, Owerri, and Aba—are facing abuse from security personnel. From soldiers to police officers, many are accused of focusing more on extracting bribes than ensuring safety. Drivers are forced to part with significant sums, often paying at multiple checkpoints along a single journey. In some cases, this can include exorbitant fees for basic passage, contributing to the rising cost of goods and making travel a financially burdensome experience.
These checkpoints, some of which number in the thousands across the region, have not only failed to curb criminal activity, such as kidnappings and armed robberies, but have also become hotspots for security personnel’s misconduct. Many civilians report being humiliated, with some even forced to leave their vehicles and walk through military checkpoints while criminals pass undetected
This situation is not only detrimental to commuters, but it also undermines trust in security forces. It is increasingly apparent that the true purpose of these roadblocks—intended to enhance public safety—has been overshadowed by greed and negligence. For a deeper look into this crisis and its impact on the South East,
