The Abia State Government has pledged to investigate claims of discrimination by soldiers at military checkpoints throughout the state. Reports have surfaced alleging that some soldiers require commuters to disembark and walk across checkpoints, while vehicles from certain regions are allowed to pass without such scrutiny.

Addressing the issue in Umuahia after a State Executive Council meeting, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (retd.), Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, stated that Governor Alex Otti had made it clear to military authorities that no Abian should be forced to raise their hands at checkpoints. He emphasized that such practices are no longer tolerated in the state.

Commander Ubah also condemned recent attacks on security personnel by unknown gunmen and assured the public that the government is collaborating with security agencies to prevent retaliatory actions against innocent civilians. Efforts are underway to introduce new checkpoint regulations to improve relations between the military and road users.

On the allegations that residents of Ekenobizi were coerced into clearing bushes around a relocated checkpoint near Onuimo Bridge, Ubah clarified that the community had voluntarily undertaken the task to support the military. He explained that the return of military checkpoints on the Umuahia-Onuimo Bridge road was a response to rising criminal activities, including kidnappings.

To improve communication and trust with the public, the Nigerian Army has launched a 3-digit emergency line, 193, for urgent military assistance. Ubah reassured residents that no part of Abia will be surrendered to criminals and encouraged the community to remain confident in their safety.

Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, particularly during the festive season. He highlighted the ongoing “Udo Ka” military operation aimed at enhancing security across the state. Residents were urged to cooperate with security operatives and provide vital information to support the fight against crime.

In a related development, Kanu announced a ban on unauthorized free medical missions in Abia due to past abuses. All such activities will now require approval from the Commissioner for Health to ensure they meet safety standards and do not pose risks to residents.