Reps order removal of multiple checkpoints in South-East

The House of Representatives has directed security agencies to remove multiple checkpoints on highways leading to the South-East region of the country.

This decision follows the adoption of a motion by the lawmaker representing Idemili North, and Idemili South Federal constituency in Anambra State, Obinna Chidoka, at the plenary on Thursday in Abuja.

In his submission, Chidoka noted that there were up to 60 checkpoints on Lagos-Onitsha Road.

He said the checkpoints had been turned into tollgates to extort motorists.

Chidoka said: “These multiple checkpoints coupled with the terrible condition of the roads cause unnecessary traffic buildup on the roads with untold hardship to users.”

The House, therefore, ordered the immediate removal of the checkpoints to ensure free flow of traffic in the South East.

The lawmakers had on December 1 directed the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, to dismantle all illegal and needless checkpoints across highways in the country following the fatal auto crash that claimed over 20 lives at Ihiala, Anambra State, on Sunday, November 28.