32 checkpoints in 105 KM: The Onitsha–Enugu journey that feels like a siege

Traveling the 105-kilometer stretch from Onitsha to Enugu has become a daunting task for commuters, with a staggering 32 security checkpoints dotting the route—an average of one every 3.7 kilometers.

These checkpoints, manned by various agencies including the Nigerian Army, Police, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), create significant delays and frustration for travelers.

The journey begins at the Army Gate in Onitsha and continues through key points like Nkwelle Junction, Awkuzu Junction, and Dunukofia LG headquarters, where police and army personnel are stationed. Further along, commuters encounter checkpoints at Enugwu-Ukwu, Amawbia, and Unizik Junctions, with the Mopol base in Awka adding to the tally. The Amansea and Ugwuoba boundaries are particularly congested, hosting multiple checkpoints, including those by the Army, Police, FRSC, and NDLEA.

As travelers approach Oji River, Ezeagu, and Umumba Ndiuno, the frequency of stops remains relentless, with army and police teams positioned at nearly every major junction. The final stretch through 9th Mile, Ngwo, and Onyeama Hill features additional checkpoints, including an anti-terror squad and posts near Abakpa Interchange and Abakpa Junction.

While these checkpoints aim to enhance security, their sheer number has sparked concerns about their impact on travel efficiency and commuter experience. For those navigating this critical route, the constant stops highlight the need for a streamlined approach to security operations in the region.

Here is a breakdown of the security presence along the expressway:

1. Army Gate Onitsha
2. Nkwelle Junction – Army
3. Awkuzu Junction – Army
4. Awkuzu Junction – FRSC
5. Dunukofia LGA Headquarters – Police
6. Enugwu-Ukwu Junction – Police
7. Amawbia Junction – Police
8. Unizik Junction – Army
9. Awka Junction (Mopol Base) – Police
10. Prince and Princess Hostel Front – Army
11. Amansea Boundary – Police
12. Ugwuoba Boundary – Police
13. Ugwuoba Bridge – Police
14. Ugwuoba Junction – Army
15. Ugwuoba Junction – NDLEA
16. Ugwuoba Junction – FRSC
17. Ugwuoba Central – Army
18. Oji River Junction – Army (Team 1)
19. Oji River Junction – Army (Team 2)
20. Ezeagu Expressway – Army
21. Near Nkwo Ezeagu – Police
22. Near Tiles Factory – Police
23. Umumba Ndiuno Express – Police (Team 1)
24. Umumba Ndiuno Express – Police (Team 2)
25. 9th Mile Checkpoint – Security Not Specified
26. Nude Express (Approaching 9th Mile) – Police
27. Ngwo Express – Army
28. Ngwo Express – Anti-Terror Squad
29. Onyeama Hill (Near Refuse Dump) – Army
30. Onyeama Hill (Near Coal Mine) – Army
31. Abakpa Interchange – Police
32. Abakpa Junction – FRSC

This overwhelming number of checkpoints, involving the Nigerian Army, Police, FRSC, NDLEA, and Anti-Terror units, has triggered questions about operational efficiency, human rights, and the true security situation in the region. Commuters often report delays, extortion, and harassment along the route.

While the stated goal is public safety, the sheer density of these checkpoints paints a different picture — one of excessive control and undue burden on travelers.