In a decisive move to combat extortion and restore order along the notorious Seme Border corridor, the Zone 2 Police Command has approved the establishment of four new checkpoints. This decision comes after a high-level security meeting convened by Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Adegoke Fayoade, with key stakeholders from various security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Customs Service, Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Speaking on the new developments, the Zonal Public Relations Officer (ZPRO), CSP Umma Ayuba, confirmed the approval of the checkpoints during a press release issued on Tuesday. Ayuba highlighted the primary goal of the initiative: to curb the growing menace of extortion that has plagued the Seme Border route, a vital gateway for trade and travel between Nigeria and neighboring Benin.
Security Stakeholders Collaborate for a Common Cause
“The meeting, which was attended by security stakeholders from various agencies, focused on tackling the issue of proliferating illegal checkpoints along the Seme Border corridor,” Ayuba said. “The key discussion point was the need to restore order and ensure smooth economic activities on this important route, which has been marred by extortion and other criminal activities.”
The newly approved checkpoints will be strategically located at four critical points along the border route: Seme Point, Gbaji Point, Apa Point, and Agbara Point. These points have been identified as hotbeds for illegal toll collection, extortion, and other criminal activities that disrupt the smooth movement of goods and people across the border.
Joint Task Force: A Unified Approach to Security
A major outcome of the meeting was the unanimous agreement to form a joint task force, composed of personnel from the various security agencies, to oversee the enforcement of the new security measures. According to Ayuba, this collaborative effort will foster a seamless coordination between the agencies and ensure a more effective response to border crimes.
“The task force will be responsible for enforcing the implementation of the four designated checkpoints,” Ayuba explained. “This collective effort will bring about a robust security presence, making it more difficult for criminals to operate within the corridor. By pooling the resources and expertise of all relevant security agencies, we are taking a unified approach to protect our borders and create an environment conducive to economic growth.”
The creation of the joint task force comes at a time when the Seme Border corridor has witnessed increasing reports of extortion by security personnel and other actors operating at various points along the route. Many traders and commuters have expressed frustration with the constant harassment, often forced to pay bribes to pass through checkpoints.
A History of Border Mismanagement
The Seme Border, which connects Nigeria with the Republic of Benin, is one of the busiest border corridors in West Africa. Its strategic location makes it a vital trade route, handling a significant amount of goods and services between the two countries. However, the border has long been notorious for multiple security agencies setting up illegal and often arbitrary checkpoints, with some officers and personnel accused of engaging in extortion activities.
This situation has created a barrier to free movement, with traders and travelers frequently finding themselves at the mercy of corrupt officers seeking to enrich themselves through bribes. According to various reports, some border security agents have used their positions to impose excessive tolls, forcing travelers to part with money in exchange for safe passage.
Government’s Stance on Reforms
The decision to approve the new checkpoints and initiate the joint task force marks a significant step toward addressing the systemic issues at the Seme Border. Officials are hopeful that the enhanced security presence will not only curb criminal activities but also promote legitimate trade, thereby contributing to the overall economic development of the region.
AIG Adegoke Fayoade, in his remarks at the meeting, emphasized that the goal of the new checkpoints is not only to ensure better security but also to foster economic growth by eliminating the hindrances created by illegal activities at the border. Fayoade stated, “Our primary responsibility is to safeguard the interests of Nigerians and ensure that vital trade routes like the Seme Border are secure for both commerce and travel. We understand the importance of this corridor for Nigeria’s economy, and we are committed to making it safer and more efficient for everyone.”
Public Involvement in Security
CSP Ayuba also urged the public to actively participate in the fight against corruption and extortion at the border. She encouraged members of the public to report any suspicious activities or instances of bribery at the newly established checkpoints. The ZPRO provided two contact numbers—07088158606 and 09062011772—for the public to call if they encounter any problems or wish to lodge complaints.
The public’s involvement is seen as crucial in ensuring that the new measures are successfully enforced. The police are counting on citizens to report any attempts at extortion or misconduct by security personnel, which will help to hold officers accountable and maintain the integrity of the checkpoints.
A Step in the Right Direction?
The creation of the new checkpoints and the formation of the joint task force represent a proactive approach to tackling the security challenges along the Seme Border. However, critics of the move argue that while the initiative may help reduce the number of illegal checkpoints, it remains to be seen whether it will address the underlying issue of corruption within the security agencies. As the country grapples with ongoing challenges related to corruption and security mismanagement, the success of this initiative will be a litmus test for Nigeria’s ability to effectively tackle security issues at its borders. For now, traders, commuters, and travelers along the Seme Border corridor can only hope that the new checkpoints will bring the relief they have long awaited.
