The Abia State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has raised concerns about the harsh treatment endured by commuters at military checkpoints along major roads in parts of the state. They have called upon both the Abia State government and military authorities to reevaluate the situation.
Simultaneously, the NUJ noted a reduction in extortion by police officers on Abia roads and commended the Police authorities for this positive development, urging them to maintain this progress.
In a comprehensive 12-point communique issued following its monthly Congress held at the NUJ Press Centre in Umuahia, the Abia NUJ Council highlighted several issues. They expressed worries about the extortion rate at military checkpoints, where commuters are often compelled to disembark from vehicles and trek long distances. The Council urged for the immediate removal of barricades and abandoned objects at roadblocks, particularly within the Ehimiri Housing Estate in Umuahia, which pose significant risks to road users.
Additionally, the NUJ lauded the Abia State Government for addressing security concerns at the regional cattle market in Umuchieze, witnessing a decrease in insecurity. They endorsed plans to fence and convert the market into a non-residential one.
While acknowledging the efforts of the state government and security agencies in tackling insecurity, the NUJ expressed worry about the surge in robbery and burglary, especially in Umuahia. They called upon security agencies to take proactive measures ahead of the festive season.
Concerns were also raised about the country’s rising inflation and heightened living costs. The NUJ urged the Federal Government to curb the drastic rise in commodity prices and invest the gains from fuel subsidy removal in critical sectors for societal betterment.
The Congress also praised ongoing road expansion and rehabilitation efforts in the state, commending Governor Alex Otti for compensating owners of demolished properties on the Ossah six-lane road. They advised prompt project completion to address the state’s infrastructure deficit.
Regarding the proliferation of water boreholes in Abia, the NUJ appealed to the State Government to revive the state’s Water Board.
Lastly, the NUJ cautioned politicians from both ruling and opposition parties against making inflammatory statements that could incite tension in the polity, advocating for responsible and measured discourse.