The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has shed light on why the Southeast region of Nigeria is dotted with numerous military checkpoints.
In a recent interview with Arise TV, General Musa explained that the decision to establish checkpoints is largely influenced by the nature of the terrain and the level of threats in the area.
He said open terrains require fewer checkpoints, while areas with more challenging or closed terrains demand tighter military control to restrict enemy movement.
He noted that while the terrains of the Southeast and Southwest are similar, the threat level in the Southeast is significantly higher.
“The terrain determines how we operate,” the Defence Chief explained.
“If the terrain is open, it’s less; if the terrain is closed, it’s more,” he added.
General Musa emphasized that failing to adapt military strategy to these conditions could lead to dangerous consequences.
“If you don’t do that, you give the enemy the ability to move around freely,” he warned.
Comparing Threat Levels Between Southeast and Southwest
The Defence Chief highlighted the relatively low threat level in the Southwest compared to the Southeast.
“The threat level in the Southwest isn’t that much,” he stated during the interview.
He acknowledged the criticisms over the heavy military presence in the Southeast but maintained that these measures are necessary to save lives.
“If we make mistakes, people get killed, and people feel we’re not doing our job,” he said.
A Balancing Act of Security and Civility
General Musa also addressed public concerns about the inconveniences caused by the checkpoints.
He admitted that the presence of the military in civilian areas can sometimes be seen as overly harsh.
“Sometimes it could be difficult; sometimes it could be painful,” he said.
However, he assured Nigerians that the military does not intend to disrupt civilian life unnecessarily.
“It seems as if we’re being very hard, but it just depends on the situation,” General Musa explained.
He further stated that the military acts based on the prevailing security challenges in the region.
“We don’t just like to come and impugn on people; we don’t like it,” he stressed.
When Security Improves, Military Presence Reduces
The Defence Chief promised that the military presence in the Southeast would reduce once the security situation improves.
“Once it gets better, we pull out,” he assured.
General Musa emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong military presence until the threats are fully neutralized.
He explained that while the measures might appear excessive, they are necessary to ensure the safety of Nigerians.
“The thing is that if we make mistakes, people get killed,” he reiterated.
Public Reactions and the Way Forward
The military’s heavy presence in the Southeast has sparked mixed reactions across Nigeria.
Critics have accused the authorities of militarizing the region, while others argue that the checkpoints are essential for curbing insecurity.
General Musa’s comments offer a rare insight into the military’s reasoning behind the strategy.
His explanation highlights the delicate balance between enforcing security and respecting civilian rights.
As the security situation in the Southeast remains a concern, many Nigerians are looking to the government for long-term solutions.
The Defence Chief’s remarks underscore the military’s commitment to safeguarding lives, even in the face of criticism.
With ongoing efforts to stabilize the region, the hope is that the checkpoints will eventually become less necessary, allowing for freer movement and a return to normalcy.
