The Nigeria Police Force has revealed that roadblocks seen across the country are mounted at the request of state governors.
This clarification was made by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, during a joint security briefing at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in Abuja.
Adejobi explained that roadblocks, referred to as stop-and-search or nipping points, are strategically established to enhance security and prevent criminal activities, particularly during the festive season.
He stated that governors are involved in approving such measures, which are implemented with the permission of the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
The PPRO also assured Nigerians that the police deployment on major highways and intercity roads aims to safeguard travellers and residents, not to intimidate them.
Addressing fears of kidnapping, particularly in the South East, Adejobi reiterated that the force had deployed personnel to critical areas to ensure safety and deter crime.
He said, “Let me say that we have done strategic deployment, and our deployment across the country is not to intimidate anybody; it is for us to make sure that all our routes, major highways, and communities are safe.
“Let me clarify that we don’t have roadblocks in Nigeria; we have stop-and-search points, nipping points, and others. Where you see roadblocks, that is zigzag movement – be it log of wood, drums, and everything, must have been at the request of the governor of that state.
“No command will form any roadblocks without the consent of the governor of that state. There are some states where the governors have actually requested or sought permission of the IGP to have such roadblocks.”
The briefing, organised by the Strategic Communications Interagency Policy Committee of the ONSA, featured representatives from the military, fire service, and Federal Road Safety Corps among other agencies.
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