A peace ambassador and political leader in Warri South-West, Frederick Igere, JP, has called on the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and the Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel Etaifo Erale, to urgently address the issue of rampant extortion and the proliferation of checkpoints in Warri, Effurun and other neighbouring areas in the state by personnel of the Nigeria Police Force.

Igere said the reported practices were increasing the cost of transportation, particularly for commuters who rely on commercial tricycles, popularly known as Keke, stressing that such acts of extortion and proliferation of checkpoints are not happening in other states.

"The situation of these road blocks is quite unfortunate that motorists and other road users can encounter several checkpoints along the same route, sometimes only a short distance apart. This practice is not happening in other states," he lamented.

While acknowledging the Nigeria Police Force’s responsibility to carry out security checks, Igere said such operations should be conducted professionally and in accordance with the law, without harassment or unlawful demands.

He alleged that most operators targeted at checkpoints pass the money demanded from them on to passengers through higher fares.

He also raised concern that motorists could encounter several checkpoints along the same route, sometimes only a short distance apart, a situation he describes as unfortunate and an embarrassment to the Force that could undermine public confidence in law enforcement.

“We have a broken system, if not, how do you explain a situation whereby you witness unprofessionalism from personnel that are supposed to conduct themselves in a professional manner?” he said.

Igere warned that policing must not become an avenue for officers to use their positions to take money from the people they are meant to protect. 

He therefore urged the governor and the police commissioner to investigate the complaints and ensure that personnel perform their duties lawfully.

He also encouraged residents and motorists to report alleged misconduct through appropriate channels, adding: “Enough is enough!”