By Gift Chapi Odekina, Abuja

The House of Representatives on Thursday urged national security agencies to reduce the excessive number of security checkpoints on the Onitsha-Enugu expressway.

This resolution followed a motion presented by Rep. Amobi Ogah during plenary in Abuja.

In his motion, Ogah highlighted that the expressway, spanning approximately 105 kilometers, hosts about 28 security checkpoints. These checkpoints, located at points such as Awkuzu Junction, Amawbia Junction, Ugwuoba Boundary, Oji River Junction, and Onyeama Hill, result in an average distance of just 3.7 kilometers between checkpoints.

Ogah argued that the excessive checkpoints subject travelers to constant harassment, delays, and extortion. He also emphasized that this practice infringes on citizens’ constitutional right to free movement as guaranteed by Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“These security checkpoints are often perceived as tools for harassment, with citizens frequently forced to pay bribes. This negatively impacts socio-economic life by increasing transportation costs, causing delays, and discouraging economic activities,” Ogah stated.

He further noted that relying on excessive checkpoints as a security measure is counterproductive, particularly in the South-East, and called for modern, efficient security approaches that respect citizens’ constitutional rights and reduce hardship.

Following the adoption of the motion, the Speaker referred the matter to the House Committees on Security and Intelligence, Army, Police, Road Safety, Defence, and National Security. These committees are expected to report back to the House within four weeks for further legislative action.