As the festive season draws near, excitement fills the air.
Families prepare to travel, markets are bustling, and the roads are packed with people heading home to celebrate.
But beneath the joy, a sense of worry creeps in.
In Nigeria’s South East, the fear of kidnappings along major highways has made what should be a happy time feel uncertain.
Imagine getting in the car with your family, ready for a cheerful trip, only to feel your heart race at the thought of danger ahead.
These fears are real for many travellers. The question on their minds is: Will we reach home safely this year?
People are looking for more than just hope; they need to know that they are truly protected.
Police Promise Safety
To calm these fears, the Nigeria Police Force has assured everyone in the South East that they are working to keep them safe before, during, and after the festive season.
On Monday, during an end-of-year press briefing, police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi explained that officers had been placed along major highways to prevent crime and kidnappings.
He said: “We have carefully planned this deployment, and it’s not to scare anyone.
“Our goal is to make sure that all roads, highways, and communities are safe”.
About Police Roadblocks
Adejobi also cleared up confusion about roadblocks.
He explained that no police command can set up a roadblock unless the state governor allows it.
Instead, what people see are stop-and-search points and other safety measures.
He said: “We don’t have roadblocks in Nigeria; we have stop-and-search points and nipping points.
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If you see a roadblock with logs, drums, or similar objects, it’s likely because the state governor requested it.”
Measures Needed
He pointed out that these stop-and-search points were necessary right now because of the security situation.
He added: “We will keep using these measures until we have better systems in place, like cameras and authorised patrols. For now, we’re focused on keeping everyone safe”.
How to Report Issues
To help people who face problems with officers at these checkpoints, Adejobi reminded citizens that helplines and complaint platforms are available.
He encouraged people to use these resources if they experience any trouble.
Meanwhile, Zakari Mijinyawa, from the Office of the National Security Adviser, shared that the National Park Service had arrested 621 criminals between January and October 2024.
Also, he explained that many criminals are now hiding in forests and national parks, which is becoming a serious security issue.
As the festive season approaches, the police’s efforts and reassurances offer some comfort.
While challenges remain, the message is clear, the goal is to make sure everyone reaches home safely to celebrate with their loved ones.