By SUNTV Global Channel
August 31, 2026
A non-partisan civic group, Oganihu, has called on security agencies and governments across Nigeria’s Southeast to address alleged extortion at security checkpoints, investigate reports of prolonged detention and strengthen respect for citizens’ rights.
The group made the demands in a statement issued on Sunday following its August 29 meeting, where members discussed security, accountability and the protection of citizens’ rights across the region.
Oganihu, which describes itself as a socio-development platform of Igbo professionals and citizens, said it received a briefing from Emeka Umeagbalasi of the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law on research concerning checkpoints and alleged extortion by security personnel operating in the Southeast.
While acknowledging the security challenges facing the region, including kidnapping and armed attacks, the group said security concerns should not be used to justify harassment or abuse of motorists and other road users.
“Security necessity cannot justify extortion, harassment, degrading treatment or the conversion of highways into revenue-collection corridors,” Oganihu said.
The group called on the Inspector-General of Police, military authorities and heads of other security agencies operating in the Southeast to conduct an audit of checkpoints across the five states.
According to Oganihu, the audit should determine the location of each checkpoint, its operational necessity, authorisation and the personnel assigned to it.
It said checkpoints genuinely required for security purposes should operate professionally and transparently, while those found to serve no identifiable security purpose or allegedly function primarily as points of extortion should be dismantled.
Oganihu also called for disciplinary and, where appropriate, criminal proceedings against security personnel found demanding or receiving money from motorists when evidence establishes wrongdoing.
The group stressed that citizens retain their constitutional rights to dignity and freedom of movement while passing through security checkpoints.
“Indefinite or secret detention cannot substitute for criminal prosecution,” Oganihu said.
The group also expressed concern over reports of prolonged detention of individuals arrested in connection with separatist activities or security operations, including allegations involving Wawa Barracks in Niger State.
It called for a transparent account of persons being held at Wawa Barracks and other military or security facilities in connection with operations in the Southeast.
According to the group, such an account should include the identities of detainees, dates and locations of arrest, their legal status and any pending charges.
Oganihu maintained that anyone suspected of committing a crime should be prosecuted before a competent court, while individuals against whom there is insufficient evidence should be released.
The civic group also urged the Anambra State Government to provide the public with an update on the implementation of recommendations made by the Truth, Justice and Peace Commission established by Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
Oganihu said the commission’s recommendations included measures for documenting missing and disappeared persons, as well as the professionalisation and coordination of vigilante services.
The group argued that residents of Anambra State and the wider Southeast deserve a clear account of which recommendations have been implemented, which remain outstanding and when outstanding recommendations are expected to be completed.
Oganihu further called for an investigation into the unresolved 2002 killings of former Nigerian Bar Association, Onitsha Branch chairman Barnabas Igwe and his wife, Abigail Igwe.
The call comes amid concerns over allegations surrounding the appointment of Ken Emeakayi as Special Adviser on Security to the Anambra State Governor. The Anambra State Government has reportedly rejected allegations against Emeakayi.
Oganihu stressed that its call for an investigation should not be interpreted as a declaration of guilt against any individual.
The group argued that the passage of time or the holding of political office should not prevent authorities from investigating serious allegations.
“Allegations surrounding the assassination of a serving NBA branch chairman and his wife cannot be permanently buried by the passage of time, political convenience or public office,” it said.
Oganihu also encouraged residents who experience alleged checkpoint extortion or other abuses to safely document incidents and report them through credible accountability channels.
“The Southeast needs security. But genuine security cannot be built upon humiliation, extortion, arbitrary detention or impunity,” the group said.
It added that respect for the rule of law must remain central to security operations and governance in the Southeast and across Nigeria.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments concerning security, citizens’ rights and accountability in the Southeast.
