We removed checkpoints to avert trailer drivers ‘extortion’ revolt – Gombe CP
By Chima Azubuike
Commissioner of Police in Gombe State Oqua Etim, has explained why checkpoints were removed within the state, to avert what he described as national embarrassment.
Etim noted that checkpoints are expected to be operational from 12am to 6am, adding that it removal would curb the impression that it has become toll gates where motorists were taxed by corrupt corps.
He made this disclosure when the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Research and Planning Ali Janga, visited the command’s headquarters, while fielding answers to reasons why the command abolished checkpoints within the state.
According to him, it was based on public interest, stressing that it would be double trajectory to have the group revolt under the current challenges that the country, state was grappling with.
He said, “As you all are aware we used to have checkpoints at various locations across the state. Most of you don’t go out in the night, a few days back we averted what would have been a very serious national embarrassment these are not matters we enjoy talking about in the public when we make mistakes we correct it.
“We have instructions that those laws should commence at midnight because we have unscrupulous people who will never listen to what we say. They will launch as early as night fall which led most of the trailer drivers to threaten to block all our road what will be our faith if they revolt at this crucial time. We are having long queues at the filling stations, naira notes queues and election is at the corner.”
Speaking further the Commissioner of Police disclosed that the abolition of checkpoints was in furtherance to complaints of residents, “We have received complaint that checkpoints are toll gates for collecting money and many of you have questioned me about what is made from checkpoints, now that we have removed the checkpoints nobody should extort from the road we have committed another crime,” he said.
Decrying perceptions by some communities that the timing was wrong, Etim said Area Commanders have been charged with the task to patrol across the towns to avert attacks.
He added, “I have received complaint from some communities that the checkpoints were removed so that they will be attacked, the checkpoints was not removed from a particular community but all over the state.
“If you are coming from Lawanti, you will see military and police checkpoints I then asked of what use is the police checkpoint thar it should be removed so that we can have patrols. I have asked Area Commanders to increase in and out of town patrols. So no threat to the electoral process.”
The DIG Janga, who was deployed for supervision of gubernatorial election in the North-East, while lauding his officers performance during the last presidential election, assured residents of a smoother process devoid of attacks.
He said, “We have done well and by the grace of God come next Saturday, we will perform well by the grace of God. Go out on Saturday and provide secured environment for voters, election officials as well as local and international observers. After the voting time remain there once the result is announced. The last election police was not indicted, you were commended by both local and international observers. The European Union, African Union commended the police.
“I believe come 11th March 2023, we are giving assurance to the good people of Gombe State apart from providing security for lives and property, security will be extended to other places.”
While warning officers about the need to avoid unnecessary movements during election said “During the election don’t allow movement of human beings, vehicles or okada, you will find it difficult to manage the situation.”
“Don’t allow yourself to be deceived by any politician that he is an observer and going to observe an election. He has no business observing or monitoring any election. He should cast his votes and go back home,” Janga said.
