March 12, 2026
News | SUNTV Global Channel
A new report has exposed widespread extortion at security checkpoints across Nigeria’s South-East, with citizens allegedly losing up to ₦1.3 trillion annually to illegal collections by security operatives stationed on major highways.
The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) raised the alarm over what it described as systematic intimidation, harassment, and unlawful levies imposed on motorists, traders, and commuters travelling within the region.
In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, the organisation accused security agencies of turning strategic highways across the five South-East states — Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo — into what it called “illegal toll points.”
According to FENRAD, independent monitoring has identified nearly 200 security checkpoints scattered across the region.
The breakdown reportedly includes:
- 37 checkpoints in Abia State
- 30 in Imo State
- 30 in Anambra State
- 40 in Enugu State
- 40 in Ebonyi State
The group stated that motorists travelling along key economic corridors such as Aba–Port Harcourt Road, Owerri–Onitsha Road, Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, and Onitsha–Enugu Expressway often encounter between 25 and 40 checkpoints within relatively short distances.
FENRAD alleged that motorists are frequently compelled to pay between ₦100 and ₦5,000 per checkpoint, depending on the type of vehicle and the discretion of the security personnel on duty.
The organisation warned that the practice has significantly increased transportation costs, placing additional financial pressure on traders, commercial drivers, and small businesses already struggling with Nigeria’s economic challenges.
“Cumulatively, investigations suggest that illegal roadside collections across Nigeria may exceed ₦1.3 trillion annually, with a significant portion linked to checkpoint operations in the South-East,” the statement noted.
FENRAD also said it has received numerous complaints from citizens who reported abuses at the checkpoints, including:
- Illegal demands for money without lawful justification
- Intimidation and harassment of motorists and passengers
- Arbitrary searches of personal belongings and mobile phones
- Confiscation of vehicle documents
- Unlawful detention and threats against those who refuse to pay
The organisation argued that such practices violate several provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, particularly Sections 34, 35, 37, and 41, which guarantee citizens’ rights to dignity, personal liberty, privacy, and freedom of movement.
It further stated that the alleged acts contradict the Nigeria Police Act 2020, which prohibits corruption, abuse of office, and unlawful collection of money from members of the public.
FENRAD criticised the governors of the South-East states for what it described as continued silence and lack of decisive action despite growing complaints from citizens.
“While the region faces genuine security challenges, the over-securitization of the South-East without proper accountability has created fertile ground for corruption and abuse of power,” the group said.
The organisation urged the governors to collectively engage the Federal Government and security leadership to urgently review current security operations in the region.
FENRAD also called on the Inspector-General of Police to implement comprehensive reforms in highway policing, including the deployment of body cameras and digital accountability systems for officers on patrol.
Additionally, the group asked the Chief of Army Staff to investigate allegations involving military personnel reportedly participating in roadside extortion.
According to the organisation, unnecessary and revenue-driven checkpoints should be dismantled and replaced with intelligence-led security strategies that prioritise professionalism and respect for citizens’ rights.
“Security operations must focus on protecting lives and property — not exploiting citizens who are already grappling with severe economic hardship,” FENRAD stated.
“The South-East cannot continue to operate as a region where citizens must pay illegal tolls simply to move from one community to another. Security checkpoints must not become cash points.”
— SUNTV Global Channel
