The Defence Headquarters has directed the immediate dismantling of all non-essential roadblocks and unauthorised checkpoints across major highways in the country, citing mounting concerns over poor operational effectiveness and increasing security vulnerabilities.
The order, issued through a December 5 memo signed by Brigadier General A. Rabiu on behalf of the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, noted that the unchecked spread of unapproved checkpoints was hindering free movement and exposing troops to unnecessary risks.
Part of the memo states, “In view of the foregoing, I am directed to respectfully convey that the Services Headquarters hereby instructs all TCS/FCs to ensure the immediate dismantling of the non-essential static roadblocks and unauthorised checkpoints within their respective JOA.”
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According to the document, although securing the highways remains a priority, the growing number of static checkpoints within the Joint Operations Area (JOA) has begun to impede operations and restrict both civilian and military movement.
Highways listed in the directive include Abuja–Lokoja–Ajaokuta–Idah–Otukpa–Obollo Afor–Enugu; Abuja–Lokoja–Obajana–Kabba–Omuo–Ekiti–Ikole Ekiti; Abuja–Lokoja–Okene–Okpella–Auchi–Benin; Abuja–Kaduna–Kano; and Lagos–Ore–Benin–Asaba–Niger Bridge.
The memo further explained that, going forward, the military will prioritise “aggressive mobile patrols and human intelligence gathering” rather than static deployments.
It added, “Commanders are further to ensure strict compliance with the approved control point locations and maintain only those essential for operational, security purposes and dominate the expanses of routes with aggressive mobile patrols and human intelligence gathering.”
