The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, has intensified efforts to restore professionalism and public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force by leading a statewide enforcement operation aimed at dismantling illegal roadblocks and curbing misconduct among police officers.
The operation, carried out under the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, focused on major highways across Rivers State, including the East-West Road, Port Harcourt–Owerri Road, and other highways where unauthorized checkpoints and traffic obstructions have long been a source of concern for motorists and commuters.
During the enforcement, the CP supervised the immediate dismantling of barricades and roadblocks that had severely disrupted traffic flow and contributed to congestion on major routes.
He emphasized that police officers must conduct stop-and-search operations professionally and strategically, without obstructing road users or hindering the free movement of people and goods.
The Commissioner further warned officers against practices that tarnish the image of the Police, stressing that roadblocks must never be used as tools for harassment, intimidation, or extortion of members of the public.
In a strong demonstration of accountability, officers found violating established operational guidelines were documented and referred to the State Police Headquarters for disciplinary action.
Several officers who appeared improperly dressed, lacked proper identification tags, or were involved in unauthorized road obstruction were immediately sanctioned.
CP Adepoju reiterated the command’s zero-tolerance policy toward extortion and other forms of unprofessional conduct, pointing out that the exercise was designed to improve public trust and ensure that police personnel operate within the confines of the law.
He stated that the monitoring exercise will not be a one-time event, but will be sustained as routine statewide supervisory operation covering all divisions and formations within the state.
Residents and motorists across the state have expressed optimism that sustaining the enforcement will help eliminate illegal checkpoints, ease traffic congestion, and reduce incidents of extortion on the state’s highways.
Nigerians generally look forward to a police system that is trustworthy, professional and accountable, unlike the brazen manner police officers abuse the system unabashedly without consequences.
