Gombe checkpoints dismantled to avert truck drivers’ riot — CP

Gombe State Commissioner of Police Oqua Etim explained that the removal of checkpoints was intended to prevent a “national embarrassment.” He clarified that checkpoints will still operate from midnight to 6 a.m., noting that their removal aims to stop the perception that they have become tollgates where motorists are extorted by corrupt officers. Etim made these remarks during a visit by Deputy Inspector General of Police for Research and Planning, Ali Janga, to the command headquarters, where he answered questions about the abolition of checkpoints in the state.

According to Etim, the decision was made in the public interest. He warned that it would be “double jeopardy” for trailer drivers who complain of extortion to revolt amid the current challenges facing the country and the state. “Most of you don’t go out at night; a few days ago we averted what would have been a very serious national embarrassment. These are not matters we enjoy discussing publicly, and when we make mistakes, we correct them,” he said. He added that the new policy requires laws to commence at midnight because “unscrupulous people will never listen to what we say.”

The commissioner also said the abolition of checkpoints responded to residents’ complaints. While some communities perceived the timing as inappropriate, Etim emphasized that Area Commanders have been tasked with patrolling towns to prevent attacks. “I have received complaints from some communities that the checkpoints were removed so they would be attacked. The checkpoints were not removed from a particular community but all over the state,” he explained. “If you are coming from Lawanti, you will see military and police checkpoints. I asked what use a police checkpoint would be if it should be removed so we can have patrols.” He has instructed Area Commanders to increase patrols in and out of towns, assuring that there is no threat to the electoral process.

DIG Janga, who was deployed to supervise the governorship election in the North‑East, praised his officers’ performance during the last presidential election and promised residents a smoother process free of attacks. “I believe that on March 11, 2023, we are giving assurance to the good people of Gombe State that, apart from providing security for lives and property, security will be extended to other places,” he said.