NBA Decries Extortion And Misuse Of Checkpoints Following Tragic Akwa Ibom Incident
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the misuse of checkpoints and extortion by law enforcement officials, following a fatal accident in Utu Etim Ekpo, Akwa Ibom State, that claimed the lives of three individuals, including a legal practitioner, and left several others injured.
The tragic incident, which occurred on Monday, November 11, 2024, involved a flour-laden truck allegedly pursued by soldiers. The vehicle lost control and crashed into nearby shops, leading to the devastating loss of life and property.
In a statement issued by its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the NBA expressed deep concern over the frequent misuse of checkpoints, which it described as a growing threat to public safety. The association criticized the indiscriminate use of roadblocks, high-speed chases through civilian areas, and the extortion of road users at these checkpoints, emphasizing that such practices undermine the purpose of law enforcement and erode public trust.
“The indiscriminate setup of roadblocks, often with logs of wood or other materials that distort traffic flow, poses significant risks to road users. These checkpoints are frequently positioned at dangerous or poorly visible locations, leading to accidents, particularly at night. Experience has shown that many of these checkpoints serve as tools for extorting drivers rather than ensuring security or enforcing the law,” Osigwe stated.
The NBA called on law enforcement agencies, including the Nigerian Army, to review their checkpoint practices, implement safer protocols, and eliminate extortion. “When checkpoints are seen as sites of extortion, they not only cause hardship but also compromise public safety and tarnish the image of the security forces. There must be an immediate end to these practices,” the statement added.
The association also condemned high-speed pursuits in populated areas, describing them as reckless and dangerous. It urged security agencies to train and retrain their personnel on proper engagement and pursuit protocols to avoid endangering civilian lives.
Calling for accountability, the NBA demanded a thorough investigation into the Akwa Ibom incident and urged the authorities to hold all culpable individuals accountable. It pledged to collaborate with its branches in Akwa Ibom to ensure justice for the victims and their families.
“The Nigerian Bar Association stands in solidarity with the families of the deceased, the injured, and the Utu Etim Ekpo community during this difficult time. We remain committed to seeking justice and ensuring corrective measures to prevent such tragedies in the future,” Osigwe concluded.
The NBA extended its condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the repose of the departed souls.
