Concerns are mounting over the extensive presence of security checkpoints along the Onitsha to Enugu expressway, with a recent report highlighting 28 checkpoints in this corridor alone.
NN News Media had reported that this alarming figure is part of a broader count of approximately 98 security checkpoints across Southeast Nigeria, raising serious allegations of extortion and harassment faced by motorists and citizens.
Motorists have reported that these checkpoints, often manned by various security personnel, have become sites of intimidation, with many claiming they are subjected to unwarranted demands for money. The situation has led to significant delays, with travel times reportedly doubling due to the frequent stops and the associated bureaucratic delays.
Local authorities, including the Imo State Commissioner of Police, have urged citizens to report incidents of extortion and harassment, emphasizing the need for accountability among security personnel. The ongoing crisis of extortion at these checkpoints not only affects the safety and comfort of travelers but also raises broader concerns about the effectiveness and integrity of security operations in the region.
See list of security checkpoints along Onitsha to Enugu expressway
1. Awkuzu Junction army
2. Awkuzu Junction FRSC
2. Dunukofia LG hqts police
3. Enugu ukwu Junction police
4. Amawbia Junction police
5. Unizik Junction army
6. Mopol base Awka Junction police
7. Prince and Princess hostel front army
8. Amansea boundary police
9. Ugwuoba boundary police
10. Ugwuoba bridge police team
11. Ugwuoba Junction army
12. Ugwuoba Junction NDLEA
13. Ugwuoba Junction FRSC
14. Ugwuoba Central army
15. Oji river Junction army 1
16. Oji River Junction army 2
17. Ezeagu express army
18. Near Nkwo ezeagu police
19. Near tiles factory police
20. Umumba Ndiuno express police 1
21. Umumba Ndiuno express police 2
22. Nude express (approach to ninth mile) police
23. Ngwo express army
24. Ngwo express anti terror squad
25. Onyeama Hill (near refuse dump) army
26. Onyeama Hill (near coal mine) army
27. Abakpa interchange police
28. Abakpa Junction FRSC
This is what a traveler moving just 105 KM from Onitsha to Enugu will endure.
A checkpoint after ever 3.7 km.
Credit: Uche Nworah
