The Abia State government has promised to investigate allegations of maltreatment of civilians by soldiers at military checkpoints across the State.
There have been reports that some soldiers insist commuters alight and walk across checkpoints, while passengers in vehicles from certain regions are allowed to pass without being subjected to such humiliating treatment.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (rtd.), who gave the promise while addressing journalists in Umuahia, emphasized that Governor Alex Otti has made it clear to military authorities that Abians should not be forced to raise their hands at checkpoints.
He condemned recent attacks on security personnel in the state by unknown gunmen and assured the public that the government is working with security agencies to prevent reprisals against innocent civilians.
“To foster better relations between road users and the military, new checkpoint regulations are being developed,” he said.
Regarding allegations that residents of Ekenobizi where gunmen last week killed two soldiers, were forced to clear bushes around a relocated checkpoint near Onuimo Bridge, Ubah clarified that the community undertook the task voluntarily to support the military.
He attributed the return of military checkpoints on the Umuahia-Onuimo Bridge road to increased criminal activities, including kidnappings around the area.
“No inch of Abia will be ceded to criminals,” Ubah reassured, while urging residents to remain confident in their safety and security.
Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property during the festive season.
He disclosed that the ongoing military operation, Udo Ka, is designed to bolster security statewide, urging residents to cooperate with security operatives and provide useful information to aid them in the fight against crime.
