The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2 Command, AIG Adegoke Fayoade has convened a high-level strategic meeting with operational commanders overseeing the Idi-Iroko, Imeko, and Aiyetoro corridors to address rising public complaints about the excessive number of security checkpoints and alleged extortion by officers.
The meeting, held at the Zone 2 Command Headquarters, Onikan, Lagos, focused on restoring discipline and professionalism within the ranks while ensuring that security operations across Ogun border communities remain effective, transparent, and citizen-friendly.
AIG Fayoade described the situation as “embarrassing and unacceptable,” stressing that the presence of multiple checkpoints had led to traffic disruptions, harassment of motorists, and reputational damage to the Nigeria Police Force. He maintained that the Force would not condone any act of corruption or misconduct under his watch.
In a decisive move, the AIG directed the rationalization of checkpoints along the affected routes, ensuring that only essential security points remain for operational effectiveness. He further mandated that all officers manning the remaining checkpoints must display professionalism, courtesy, and integrity while on duty.
To enforce compliance, AIG Fayoade announced the immediate establishment of a Task Force on Checkpoint Monitoring, which will oversee activities across the Idi-Iroko–Imeko–Aiyetoro axis. The Task Force will be responsible for supervising, regulating, and reporting checkpoint operations to prevent abuse and restore public confidence.
The AIG also emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation among security outfits, including Customs, Immigration, and other border patrol units operating within the axis. He urged commanders to strengthen synergy and intelligence-sharing to ensure coordinated border security without inconveniencing citizens.
In addition, AIG Fayoade instructed senior officers to sensitize their subordinates on the ethics of modern policing, community engagement, and respect for human rights. He said that effective policing depends not only on security presence but also on the trust and cooperation of the people being served.
The Zone 2 Police Command, which covers Lagos and Ogun States, has received increasing feedback from commuters and residents over the proliferation of checkpoints along the Idi-Iroko border road, an important trade route linking Nigeria with the Republic of Benin.
Security experts and transport unions have long argued that while checkpoints are vital for combating cross-border crimes such as smuggling and trafficking, their abuse by corrupt operatives undermines the purpose and public image of law enforcement agencies.
With this directive, AIG Fayoade reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to accountability, operational efficiency, and citizens’ welfare, assuring the public that all officers found engaging in extortion or misconduct will face disciplinary action.