By Peter Dansu The Baale of Kankon Community in Badagry West Local Council Development Area, Chief Abraham Abayomi Bodewuse, has met with t...
By Peter Dansu
The Baale of Kankon Community in Badagry West Local Council Development Area, Chief Abraham Abayomi Bodewuse, has met with the Commander of the Nigerian Air Force Base in the area following allegations of harassment, intimidation and extortion of residents at military checkpoints, including claims that motorists and other road users were being forced to pay as much as ₦30,000 to gain passage.
The meeting followed growing complaints by residents of Kankon and neighbouring communities over their alleged experiences at the checkpoints, particularly those returning home after work and other evening engagements.
The controversy recently gained attention on social media, with residents raising concerns over an alleged 10:00 p.m. movement restriction affecting motorcycle users and other travellers along the Owode-Gbaji axis, a major access route connecting several communities in Badagry West.
Some residents alleged that they were routinely stopped, delayed or turned back, while others claimed that money was demanded before they could proceed with their journeys. There were also allegations of selective enforcement, with some road users reportedly allowed passage while others were subjected to restrictions.
The reported experiences have generated concerns about the treatment of residents, especially workers, traders, churchgoers and other people who have legitimate reasons to travel at night.
Reacting to the complaints in a press statement, Chief Bodewuse disclosed that he had taken the matter directly to the Air Force Base Commander during a meeting, where he presented the concerns of the community.
The Baale, who is a retired senior officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, acknowledged the security responsibilities of military personnel, particularly in protecting lives, property and sensitive installations.
However, he emphasised that security operations must be conducted with professionalism, discipline and respect for the dignity and rights of civilians.
According to him, the Commander said he was previously unaware of the alleged incidents but assured him that misconduct by officers would not be tolerated.
The Commander reportedly promised that any personnel found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary action.
Chief Bodewuse further disclosed that the Air Force Commander had encouraged residents who experienced or witnessed harassment, intimidation, assault or extortion to provide relevant information that could assist in identifying the officers involved.
He said such information could include the names or physical descriptions of the personnel, dates and times of incidents, and other circumstances that could help establish what happened.
Residents were advised to forward their complaints directly to the Commander or through the Baale's office for necessary attention and follow-up.
While appealing to residents to remain calm and cooperate with lawful security procedures, Chief Bodewuse assured the community that their safety and well-being remained a priority.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining a cordial relationship between Kankon Community and the Nigerian Air Force authorities while ensuring that the grievances of residents are properly addressed.
The meeting comes amid growing calls for intervention over the alleged nighttime restrictions and reported extortion at the checkpoints, with residents expecting the assurances given by the Air Force Commander to translate into improved treatment and unhindered access for law-abiding members of the public.
The allegations, including the reported ₦30,000 extortion demand, have yet to be independently established.
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