The Igbo National Council (INC) Worldwide has issued a scathing petition to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, accusing security operatives of rampant extortion and humiliation at military checkpoints across the Southeast.
The petition, signed by the INC President, Chilos A.C. Godsent, and made available to reporters, highlights alarming human rights violations at 90 checkpoints spanning five states in the region.
“Security operatives have turned these checkpoints into illegal tollgates and humiliation points against civilian road users,” the petition stated. “These acts are unconstitutional and unacceptable.”
A Call to Action
The INC is demanding swift intervention to investigate the alleged misconduct, prosecute erring personnel, and halt the abuse of civilian rights. The group’s demands include establishing a task force to monitor checkpoint activities, prosecuting offenders, and ensuring security personnel focus on intelligence gathering and tactical operations rather than extortion.
“Motorists and passengers face harassment daily, with some being forced to disembark and trek while raising their hands—a humiliating act that symbolizes surrender,” the group revealed. “Motorcyclists are even ordered to push their vehicles across checkpoints.”
The INC emphasized that such practices contravene Section 34 and Section 217(2)(C) of the 1999 Constitution, which protect citizens from inhumane treatment and emphasize the military’s role in safeguarding lives and property.
A History of Abuses
The Southeast region has long grappled with tensions between residents and security forces. What was originally intended as a framework for ensuring peace and order has, according to the INC, devolved into a system that undermines the dignity and safety of ordinary Nigerians.
In some cases, security operatives allegedly conduct arbitrary searches of passengers’ mobile phones without warrants, further infringing on privacy rights. “This unlawful act discourages locals from sharing critical intelligence with security agencies,” the INC noted, adding that such practices erode trust and cooperation.
The petition also flagged concerns over how these extortion schemes thrive unchecked. “The impunity with which these actions are carried out is unacceptable,” the group said.
Not Just Checkpoints but Tollgates
Highlighting specific cases, the INC provided a comprehensive list of 90 checkpoints where extortion and abuses are reportedly rampant. The checkpoints span major routes, including those in Imo, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Abia states.
Among the hotspots cited are Akachi Junction on the Aba-Owerri Expressway in Imo State, Ogii-Isiokwe along Okigwe-Umuahia Expressway, and Amansea Junction on the Enugu-Onitsha old road in Anambra State.
In these locations, the INC claims security personnel demand bribes from commercial drivers and humiliate passengers. “Many drivers now factor in these illegal ‘fees’ as part of their daily operational costs, which are eventually passed on to the public,” the petition stated.
Focus on Security, Not Extortion
Amid the ongoing challenges of banditry and kidnappings in the region, the INC argued that security operatives should prioritize combating crime over intimidating civilians. “The Southeast is not a conquered territory, nor is it at war with the Nigerian state,” the group asserted. “Therefore, its citizens should not be subjected to inhumane treatment.”
The petition urged the Defence Headquarters to address the rising wave of insecurity without further victimizing the civilian population. The INC warned that if left unchecked, the current practices would deepen distrust between citizens and security agencies.
A Growing Chorus for Accountability
This isn’t the first time the Southeast has been in the spotlight over issues of security and civil rights. Human rights groups and regional leaders have previously decried the militarization of the region, especially in the aftermath of secessionist agitations.
Analysts point to the broader implications of these checkpoint abuses. “These actions undermine the legitimacy of security agencies and fuel tensions in an already volatile region,” said Dr. Emmanuel Nnamdi, a political analyst based in Enugu. “If the government fails to act, it risks alienating the very communities it seeks to protect.”
The INC also underscored that while security remains a priority, it should not come at the expense of fundamental human rights. “The integrity of our armed forces depends on their adherence to the Constitution and respect for citizens’ dignity,” the petition read.
What Next?
The INC has called on General Musa to act decisively, ensuring that errant officers are held accountable and measures are put in place to restore public confidence. “We demand an end to this exploitation and humiliation immediately,” the petition concluded.
For residents of the Southeast, the stakes are high. As insecurity persists and the burden of illegal checkpoint extortion grows, the call for reforms has never been more urgent.
