Rights group decries multiple police checkpoints, escorts in Imo

Ihedioha pledges to make councils more viable, productive

The Imo Peoples’ Action for Democracy (IPAD), has decried mounting multiple police checkpoints on the roads in all parts of Imo State.It appealed to the new Commissioner of Police (CP), Mobolaji Olaniyi Fafowora, to reverse the decision of his predecessor, Rabiu Ladodo by withdrawing them.

In a statement issued yesterday by its coordinator, Marjorie Ezihe and Secretary, Chibundu Uchegbu, the group stated that motorists were complaining of extortion by officers in the state.But the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Orlando Godson Ikeokwu had in a previous statement advised motorists against offering money to police officers, urging them to ensure that their vehicle particulars were in order.

The group also appealed to Fafowora to reduce the number of police escorts that accompany some influential individuals in the state; curb forced detentions; stop alleged collection of money for bailing detainees and uphold bail-free system.It urged the CP to ensure that its personnel who engage in civil matters such as debt collection, land cases and others were punished in accordance with the law.

“The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Adamu Mohammed had through the force PPRO, DCP Frank Mbah on Tuesday, December 24, 2019 announced the appointment and deployment of a new commissioner to Imo State. “He is Mobolaji Olaniyi Fafowora and will be taking over from CP Rabiu Ladodo, who retires on December 31, 2019. The IPAD welcomes the new police boss as he resumes duty. We urge him to detect, prevent crimes, apprehend criminals, protect lives and property, maintain law and order, as well as enforce regulatory laws.

“IPAD is hopeful that Fafowora will uphold these tenets and uplift the Imo State police command to enviable heights,” the statement reads.The group stressed that Imo people were ready to cooperate with the police, as they recognise the nature of their duties, the risks they are exposed to and challenges they face.

Meanwhile, Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha, has promised to make the 27 council areas of the state more viabile and productive.He stated this at the weekend while inaugurating an ultra modern 28 – room 300-seater capacity hall at the Ahiazu Mbaise Council Area Secretariat, adding that the facilities at the council secretariats would enable the workers to work optimally in a friendly environment.

The structure, designed to accommodate council workers in various departments and units, was started in August and completed in December as work continues in other 26 councils’ secretariat to achieve uniformity.He disclosed that so far, he had found them efficient and productive, which was why the tenure of Interim Management Committees (IMC) was extended by six months to enable them to prepare for council elections, stressing the need for oversight functions on the councils irrespective of their autonomy.