Security Checkpoints As Cash Points: Corruption In the Southeast Geo-Political Zone

 

The Southeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria, comprising Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States, has become infamous for a disturbing brand of corruption, where security checkpoints are being transformed into cash points. Policemen and, in some cases, soldiers manning these checkpoints have turned extortion into a lucrative business, targeting unsuspecting commuters, car, and tricycle drivers.

At these checkpoints, the primary goal of security personnel is not to ensure the safety of citizens, but to extort money from drivers and passengers. Young men driving expensive cars are often profiled, vilified, and targeted for harassment and extortion. In a troubling turn of events, some security officers now carry Point of Sale (POS) machines, which they use to withdraw money from the accounts of victims under the pretense of investigating suspicious financial activities or involvement in cybercrime. However, this practice is more about filling their own pockets than upholding the law.

The phenomenon of security checkpoints becoming cash points is indicative of a wider societal issue, where the stereotype that young men with exotic cars are involved in fraud perpetuates further injustice, extortion, and criminality. This corrupt behavior erodes public trust in the security forces, undermines the rule of law, and fosters a culture of impunity among those meant to uphold justice.

To combat this issue, experts suggest a complete overhaul of the security sector, including training programs focused on ethical conduct, professionalism, and integrity. Additionally, systems for reporting and addressing corruption should be strengthened to ensure accountability for those found guilty of extortion.

Ultimately, this transformation of security checkpoints into cash points is a symptom of deeper societal issues. Addressing the root causes of corruption will require collective effort and commitment to restore trust in Nigeria’s security apparatus, creating a safer and more just society for all citizens.