The Abia State Government has committed to investigating allegations of discriminatory practices by soldiers at military checkpoints throughout the state.
Reports indicate that some soldiers require commuters to disembark and walk through checkpoints, while vehicles from certain regions are permitted to pass without scrutiny.
Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (retd.), Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, addressed the media in Umuahia following a State Executive Council meeting, stating that Governor Alex Otti has made it clear to military authorities that Abians should not be compelled to raise their hands at checkpoints. He added that such practices are no longer tolerated in the state.
Commander Ubah condemned recent attacks on security personnel by unknown gunmen and assured the public that the government is collaborating with security agencies to prevent reprisals against innocent civilians. To improve relations between road users and the military, new checkpoint regulations are being developed.
Regarding allegations that residents of Ekenobizi were forced to clear bushes around a relocated checkpoint near Onuimo Bridge, Ubah clarified that the community undertook the task voluntarily to assist the military. He attributed the re-establishment of military checkpoints on the Umuahia-Onuimo Bridge road to a rise in criminal activities, including kidnappings.
In an effort to enhance communication and build trust with civilians, the Nigerian Army has introduced a 3-digit emergency line, 193, encouraging residents to use it for urgent military assistance.
“No inch of Abia will be ceded to criminals,” Ubah stated, urging residents to maintain their confidence in safety and security.
During a press briefing, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, especially during the festive season, and highlighted the ongoing military operation, Udo Ka, aimed at enhancing security across the state.
Residents were encouraged to cooperate with security personnel and provide valuable information to assist in the fight against crime. Kanu also announced a ban on unauthorized free medical missions in the state due to previous abuses, stating that all such activities must now receive approval from the Commissioner for Health to prevent unregulated medical outreach programs that could endanger residents.
