Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has called on the Nigerian Army to end alleged harassment and humiliation of travelers at military checkpoints across the state. Reports suggest that travelers are frequently forced to disembark from their vehicles, walk across checkpoints on foot, and, in some cases, raise their hands while crossing. Meanwhile, trucks transporting traders are reportedly allowed to pass with passengers onboard.
Addressing the matter after a State Executive Council meeting held at his Nvosi country home, Governor Otti’s Security Adviser, McDonald Ubah, disclosed that the governor has issued a strong warning to security agents against such degrading practices. “Soon, there will be a regulation correcting that,” Ubah stated, adding that no resident of Abia should face humiliation at checkpoints.
Ubah explained that military checkpoints in the state were reinstated to curb rising crime rates, particularly kidnappings. “They [the military] had to come because of the level of crime taking place in that area. Criminals were having a field day, kidnapping people and crossing over to the Imo State side without being stopped,” he said.
According to Ubah, public outcry over increasing kidnappings had led to the reinstatement of the checkpoint. “The same people who complained about the checkpoint are the same people who asked for it back because the level of kidnapping had become unbearable, and they were living in fear,” he noted.
To enhance security, the checkpoint has been relocated closer to the river to eliminate side roads and tracks previously exploited by criminals. “This new position gives soldiers a clearer view of all routes, improving their ability to protect themselves and the community,” Ubah said.
Governor Otti has also directed that no traveler should be forced to raise their hands while crossing military checkpoints. “Going forward, people will no longer see such practices,” Ubah affirmed.
The Security Adviser also addressed a recent meeting with the Minister of Defense and security advisers from the five eastern states, where collaborative strategies were discussed to address the region’s security concerns.
On the market across the river closed by the Army, Ubah clarified that the decision was linked to security concerns. “The soldiers believe hoodlums launched attacks from that area, but the road previously closed after the attack has been reopened. The Imo State government now has the responsibility to open the market,” he said.
Responding to allegations that soldiers forced civilians to fill sandbags, Ubah dismissed the claims, stating that Governor Otti had provided concrete barriers for the soldiers’ protection. “The governor is against such practices, which is why he provided and painted concrete barriers to ensure soldiers’ safety,” he said.
To build public trust, Ubah noted that the Nigerian Army has introduced a three-digit hotline for emergencies. “If there is any need, dialing the hotline will prompt immediate action from the nearest military formation. The soldiers are here to ensure your safety, and only those with questionable intentions need to worry,” he added.