The Igbo National Council (INC) Worldwide has revealed that there are 98 security checkpoints in the Southeast region, condemning the constant harassment and extortion of citizens and motorists by security personnel.
In a press statement issued by its National Coordinator, Chilos Godsent, he revealed that Abia State topped the list with 37 checkpoints followed by Imo State with 23 checkpoints.
It further revealed that Anambra and Enugu have 15 checkpoints each, as Ebonyi came behind with 8 checkpoints.
The council’s research department, Directorate of Human Rights Protection, conducted the study after receiving reports of daily humiliations faced by the public at the hands of security personnel.
The checkpoints are manned by a joint task force comprising the military, police, and civil defense, or sometimes just one of these groups.
While acknowledging the need for security measures, the INC urges security operatives to operate with a human face, building trust with civilians who can aid in the fight against criminality.
However, the group laments that checkpoints have become illegal toll gates and humiliation points for civilians.
