The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Adepoju, has launched a crackdown on unauthorized police roadblocks and alleged extortion points across major highways in the state, personally leading patrol operations aimed at restoring professionalism and easing the movement of motorists.
During the operation, the police chief visited strategic routes including the East-West Road and the Rivers–Imo boundary, where he ordered the removal of illegal barricades and questioned officers found creating unnecessary obstructions.
Videos circulating online showed the Commissioner confronting personnel over their conduct, asking pointed questions such as, “Why are you blocking the road?” while directing them to comply with established policing guidelines.
Accompanied by senior officers, Adepoju emphasized that stop-and-search operations must be carried out in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, ensuring that security checks do not become avenues for harassment, extortion, or unnecessary traffic congestion.
The exercise forms part of efforts to implement the professional policing standards introduced by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, which prohibit unauthorized roadblocks while allowing intelligence-driven patrols and lawful stop-and-search activities.
During the patrol, officers were also cautioned against improper dressing and conduct capable of damaging the image of the police force. The Commissioner stressed that personnel must maintain discipline, appear in approved uniforms, and interact respectfully with members of the public.
Residents and road users welcomed the operation, praising the visible involvement of the police leadership and expressing hope that the action would reduce extortion, improve public confidence, and make travel safer and more convenient.
For years, complaints about illegal checkpoints and the collection of unauthorized payments by some security personnel have remained a major concern for motorists across parts of Nigeria.
Security experts have often argued that while highway patrols are necessary for crime prevention, they must be conducted within the framework of accountability, transparency, and respect for citizens’ rights.
The Rivers State Police Command has assured the public that monitoring and enforcement will continue to ensure officers comply with the new directives and that anyone found engaging in misconduct will face disciplinary action.
The development has been viewed as a significant step towards rebuilding public trust in law enforcement and strengthening community confidence in the fight against crime.
