Benue: Security Adviser, Har Dismantles Over 20 Illegal Roadblocks in Benue, Warns Against Extortion

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Benue State Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Joseph Har, has dismantled more than 20 illegal roadblocks and unauthorized checkpoints along the Vandeikya-Konshisha road, warning individuals involved in extortion to desist or face sanctions.

The operation was carried out on Thursday during the security adviser’s inspection tour of Konshisha Local Government Area and was welcomed by motorists, commuters and residents who have long complained about harassment and extortion along the route.

According to findings from the inspection, over 20 checkpoints were mounted on the road, with only three identified as legitimate security points operated by the Nigeria Police Force and the Benue State Civil Protection Guards (BSCPG).

Har said the remaining checkpoints were allegedly set up by youth groups, members of Benue Motorcycle Association (BEMOA) and individuals impersonating Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) or untrained personnel of the civil protection guards.

He described the proliferation of illegal checkpoints as unacceptable, noting that they constitute a major burden on road users and traders who are often forced to part with money while also enduring delays in their journeys.

He warned those behind the illegal roadblocks to immediately stop the practice and urged members of the public to report cases of extortion and unauthorized checkpoints to the relevant authorities.

The security adviser reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ensuring free movement of people and goods across Benue and maintaining law and order on major roads.

Reacting to the exercise, motorists and residents commended the intervention, saying the illegal checkpoints had become a source of hardship and nightmare for travelers.

They, however, called for sustained patrols and monitoring, alleging that some unemployed youths often return to re-establish the roadblocks after they have been dismantled in order to continue extorting motorists and traders.

The residents expressed hope that continued enforcement would permanently end the activities of those operating illegal checkpoints along the route.