The House of Representatives has directed Security Chiefs in the country to seek ways of evolving alternative security strategies that will be devoid of dehumanizing acts suffered in Checkpoints along roads.
The House gave the directive following a motion moved by the Member representing Isuikwuato/ Umunneochi Federal Constituency, Hon Amobi Ogah on the need to urge the National Security Agencies to reduce the excessive Checkpoints along Onitsha – Enugu Expressway.
The House mandated the House committee on National security to engage relevant security agencies to adopt initiatives that will effectively address regional security challenges than the use of Checkpoints and their accompanying negative effects.
While laying emphasis on ensuring an end to undue hardship and violation of human rights suffered at various Checkpoints, the House also urged the Committee to direct the Corps Marshall of FRSC to also adopt new measures in carrying out their duties.
Presenting the motion earlier, Hon Ogah noted with concern that the Onitsha – Enugu Expressway covering a distance of 105 kilometers has about 28 Checkpoints, averaging 3.8 kilometers between two Checkpoints.
He pointed out that Motorists and Travellers are subjected to constant harassment, delays, extortion, in addition to other forms of inconveniences which infringe on their rights to free movement as enshrined in section 4 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.
While agreeing that security is pertinent, Hon Ogah observed that the current humiliation has drastically affected the Socio economic lives of the people as the delays and constant interruptions have increased the prices of goods and Services as a result of the hike in transportation.
