Paragraph 1: Addressing Security Concerns and Festive Season Assurances
The Nigeria Police Force has moved to allay fears and assure residents of the South East region of enhanced security measures during the festive season. This response comes amidst public concerns over reported kidnappings along major highways, casting a shadow over the typically joyous period. The Force spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, addressed these concerns during an end-of-year press briefing organized by the Strategic Communications Interagency Policy Committee under the Office of the National Security Adviser. He emphasized the strategic deployment of personnel to safeguard major routes, highways, and communities, stressing that the heightened police presence is not intended for intimidation but rather to ensure public safety and security. This commitment aims to provide residents with peace of mind during the festive period and instill confidence in the Force’s ability to protect them from criminal elements.
Paragraph 2: Clarifying Roadblock Procedures and State Governor Consent
Adejobi also clarified the Force’s policy on roadblocks, differentiating between legitimate stop-and-search points and unauthorized barriers. He explained that roadblocks, typically characterized by zigzag arrangements using logs of wood, drums, and other objects, are only implemented with the express consent of the state governor. Regular stop-and-search points, nipping points, and other security checkpoints are distinct from these roadblocks and part of standard policing procedures. The Force spokesperson emphasized that no police command is authorized to erect roadblocks without the governor’s explicit permission. This clarification aims to address potential misunderstandings and reinforce the importance of intergovernmental cooperation in security matters. Obtaining gubernatorial approval for roadblocks underscores the localized nature of security assessments and the recognition of state-level authority in managing security within their jurisdictions.
Paragraph 3: Justification for Stop-and-Search Measures and Future Technological Enhancements
The continued use of stop-and-search points stems from ongoing security concerns, according to Adejobi. These measures are deemed necessary to ensure the safety of travellers and commuters until more sophisticated systems are implemented. The Force envisions a future where seamless monitoring of vehicles and individuals is possible through authorized patrols and strategically placed cameras. This technological advancement would potentially reduce the need for physical stop-and-search procedures, minimizing disruptions for law-abiding citizens while maintaining effective security surveillance. In the interim, however, existing measures remain in place to safeguard public safety. The Force recognizes the potential for misconduct at these checkpoints and has provided helplines and complaint response platforms to address any issues encountered by the public during their interactions with law enforcement officers.
Paragraph 4: National Park Service Operations and Combating Criminal Activities in Protected Areas
Beyond highway security, the briefing also highlighted the role of the National Park Service in combating criminal activities within protected areas. Zakari Mijinyawa, Director of Legal Services at the Office of the National Security Adviser, disclosed that the Service had apprehended a significant number of criminals operating within national parks between January and October 2024. Mijinyawa emphasized the growing concern surrounding the use of forests and national parks as hideouts by criminal elements, posing a threat to both the environment and surrounding communities. The exploitation of these protected areas not only undermines conservation efforts but also creates security challenges for park management and local populations.
Paragraph 5: National Park Service Enforcement and Prosecution of Offenders
The National Park Service’s proactive approach to law enforcement is reflected in the number of arrests, prosecutions, and out-of-court settlements achieved during the reported period. Mijinyawa noted that 621 arrests were made for various offences, with 466 individuals subsequently prosecuted. Additionally, 61 cases were resolved through out-of-court settlements. These figures demonstrate the Service’s commitment to upholding park regulations and protecting Nigeria’s natural resources. The prosecutions serve as a deterrent to potential offenders and underscore the legal consequences of engaging in illegal activities within protected areas. Out-of-court settlements, when appropriate, offer a more efficient means of resolving certain cases while still ensuring accountability.
Paragraph 6: Addressing Security Challenges in National Parks and Protecting Vulnerable Ecosystems
The briefing highlighted specific national parks, such as Kamuku, Chad Basin, and Kainji Lake, which have experienced violent incursions, posing threats to park management and surrounding communities. These incursions underscore the vulnerability of these ecosystems to criminal activities and the need for enhanced security measures. The collaborative efforts of various security agencies, including the National Park Service and the Nigeria Police Force, are essential in addressing these challenges and ensuring the long-term preservation of Nigeria’s natural heritage. The integration of security measures with conservation efforts is crucial for protecting these valuable resources and the communities that depend on them. The ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities within protected areas reflect a broader commitment to national security and sustainable environmental management.
