- Adejobi clarified that roadblocks are only erected with the consent of state governors
The Nigeria Police Force has assured residents of the South-East of enhanced security measures to ensure their safety during the festive season, addressing concerns over recent kidnapping incidents on major highways in the region.
Speaking on Monday at an end-of-year press briefing organised by the Strategic Communications Interagency Policy Committee under the Office of the National Security Adviser, Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi said personnel had been strategically deployed to key routes and communities.
“We have done strategic deployment across the country to ensure that all our routes, major highways, and communities are safe. This is not to intimidate anybody but to safeguard lives and property,” Adejobi stated.
Addressing concerns about roadblocks, Adejobi clarified that roadblocks are only erected with the consent of state governors. “Where you see roadblocks — that zigzag arrangement using logs of wood, drums, and other objects — it must have been at the request of the state governor. No command will set up roadblocks without such consent.”
He noted that stop-and-search points remain necessary due to ongoing security challenges. “These points are crucial for now. Until we have a better system with seamless monitoring through patrols and cameras, these measures will stay in place for the safety of travellers,” he explained.
Adejobi also encouraged the public to report misconduct by officers at checkpoints through the helplines and complaint platforms provided by the police.
The deployment is part of efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to restore confidence among travellers and ensure a safe and secure festive period in the South-East region.