Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has called on the Nigerian Army to halt the reported harassment and humiliation of travelers at military checkpoints across the state. Addressing concerns about the treatment of civilians, Otti emphasized that no Abian should be subjected to degrading practices while crossing checkpoints.

Reports indicate that travelers are frequently forced to disembark from vehicles and walk across checkpoints, sometimes with their hands raised, while trucks transporting traders are allowed to pass freely. Speaking through his Security Adviser, McDonald Ubah, after the State Executive Council meeting at his Nvosi country home, the governor condemned such actions and assured residents that changes would be implemented soon.

“Soon, there will be a regulation correcting that,” Ubah stated, reaffirming Otti’s stance against dehumanizing practices. He noted that such treatment damages the trust between residents and security forces, stating, “You don’t ask people to come down from their vehicles, raise their hands up, and cross. Tomorrow, you want them to come and give you information.”

Relocation of Military Checkpoint After Recent Attack

Ubah also addressed the relocation of a military checkpoint following the recent killing of three soldiers. The checkpoint, initially established to curb kidnappings and other crimes, was moved to a location near the river to improve visibility and eliminate escape routes for criminals.

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“The criminals used to exploit side roads and tracks to avoid the checkpoint,” Ubah explained. “The new location ensures the soldiers can monitor all routes effectively, enhancing their safety and preventing attacks.”

Despite earlier complaints about checkpoints, residents have expressed relief at their reintroduction due to escalating crimes. “The same people who opposed the checkpoint requested its return because the level of kidnapping along that area had become unbearable,” Ubah said.

Measures to Protect Civilians and Strengthen Security

The governor has taken proactive steps to ensure residents’ safety while supporting the military. Otti has provided concrete barriers to replace the sandbags previously used by soldiers, addressing allegations that civilians were forced to fill them.

“The governor is against such practices and has gone out of his way to provide painted concrete barriers for the soldiers’ protection,” Ubah clarified. Additionally, a three-digit emergency telephone line has been introduced by the Nigerian Army to ensure immediate response to security threats.

Ubah reassured residents of ongoing cooperation between southeastern states to address security concerns. Following discussions with the Minister of Defense and security advisers from neighboring states, collaborative measures have been put in place to address cross-border crime and reopen markets closed due to recent attacks.

The governor’s directive emphasizes that no Abia resident should endure mistreatment at checkpoints. “Going forward, people will not see such practices again,” Ubah assured, reiterating the administration’s commitment to building trust between civilians and security forces.