The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly criticized the overwhelming presence of security checkpoints along the Onitsha-Enugu expressway, describing it as unconstitutional, dehumanizing, and a form of organized punishment inflicted on the people of the South-East.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, on Sunday, the rights group expressed grave concern over the situation. According to HURIWA, the 105-kilometre stretch of road, which should be a relatively short trip, is now burdened by a staggering 28 security checkpoints—averaging one every 3.7 kilometres.
“These checkpoints, operated by various security agencies including the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police Force, and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), have subjected travellers to frequent harassment, unnecessary delays, and extortion,” the group noted.
HURIWA pointed out key locations such as Awkuzu Junction, Amawbia Junction, Ugwuoba boundary, Oji River Junction, and Onyeama Hill as areas where travellers are particularly affected. It argued that the excessive security presence not only causes inconvenience but also promotes extortion by security personnel, with ordinary citizens and commercial drivers bearing the brunt of the harassment.
The association highlighted that this militarized approach violates the constitutional right to free movement, guaranteed under Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution. It also emphasized that the high number of roadblocks is a direct assault on the dignity of people in the South-East, where such levels of security measures are particularly aggressive.
HURIWA alleged that the checkpoints seem more like tools for harassment than genuine efforts to ensure security. Citizens, especially commercial drivers, often face pressure to pay bribes to avoid prolonged delays or further mistreatment.
The group also raised concerns about the negative impact on the region’s economy, stating that the checkpoints have significantly disrupted business operations. As a major commercial route, the delays on the Onitsha-Enugu road hinder the movement of goods and discourage investment, further weakening the economic stability of the region.
“While ensuring security is critical, the current strategy is counterproductive and undermines the economic and social well-being of the South-East,” HURIWA remarked. It further argued that other regions of Nigeria are not subjected to such oppressive security measures.
In response to the ongoing issue, the group urged the governors of South-East states to initiate dialogue with the Service Chiefs and the Inspector General of Police. HURIWA stressed the need for alternative security strategies, suggesting that modern, efficient security methods could be deployed without infringing on the constitutional rights of the people.
The rights group recommended community-based security initiatives and improved intelligence gathering as more effective approaches to safeguarding the region. It also called for better collaboration between local law enforcement agencies and communities to ensure a more targeted, humane approach to security.
Finally, HURIWA appealed to the National Assembly to review the operational conduct of security agencies in the South-East, particularly along the Onitsha-Enugu expressway. The group demanded strict oversight to prevent the misuse of authority and protect citizens from harassment and exploitation at the hands of security personnel.
