The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Abia State Council, has expressed deep concern over the appalling treatment of commuters at military checkpoints along major roads in parts of the state.
In a call to action, the NUJ appealed to both the Abia State government and military authorities to urgently address and rectify the distressing situation.
The NUJ also reported a significant reduction in extortion by policemen on Abia roads, commending the Police authorities and urging them to sustain this positive development.
During its monthly Congress at NUJ Press Centre in Umuahia, the Abia NUJ Council issued a 12-point communique highlighting its unease over the alarming rate of extortion at military checkpoints on various roads within the state.
Of particular concern was the observation that commuters were being compelled to disembark from vehicles and trek long distances when crossing military checkpoints.
Furthermore, the communique, signed by Comrade Victor Ndukwe (Chairman) and Adaeze Ralph Igbokwe (Secretary), called for the immediate removal of sandbags and other obstructions at abandoned roadblocks manned by security agents across the state. The Ehimiri Housing Estate in Umuahia was specifically highlighted as a location where these obstructions pose a serious risk to road users.
The Congress also commended the proactive measures implemented by the Abia State Government in cleansing the regional cattle market at Umuchieze. It noted a significant reduction in insecurity in the area and expressed support for the planned fencing and conversion of the market into a non-residential market.
While acknowledging the efforts of the Abia State Government and security agencies in combating insecurity, the NUJ voiced concern about the rising incidences of robbery and burglary, especially within the Umuahia metropolis. It urged security agencies to heighten their vigilance, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming Yuletide season.
Addressing the prevailing economic challenges, the journalists lamented the escalating inflation and the resultant high cost of living in the country. They urged the Federal Government to urgently address the sharp surge in commodity prices and to strategically invest the proceeds from fuel subsidy removal in critical sectors that would have a positive impact on citizens’ lives.
The Congress also praised the ongoing road expansion and rehabilitation efforts in parts of the state undertaken by the Abia State Government while commending Governor Alex Otti for compensating owners of demolished properties on the Ossah six-lane road. It additionally advised that these infrastructure projects be completed expeditiously to alleviate the infrastructural deficit in the state.
Expressing concern about the proliferation of water boreholes in various parts of Abia, the NUJ urged the State Government to revitalize the state’s Water Board.
Finally, the NUJ cautioned politicians in both the ruling and opposition parties against making reckless statements that could potentially inflame the political climate. It advocated for responsible language use to prevent any escalation of tensions.
