Rescue South East road users
The ongoing situation at security checkpoints in the South-East region of Nigeria, where travelers face extortion, intimidation, and humiliation at the hands of security personnel, presents a pressing. These practices, particularly the brazen extortion by soldiers and other security personnel, contribute to a deepening distrust between the public and the authorities, erode social cohesion, and create an environment of fear and oppression.
It is crucial to recognize that the role of security forces should be to protect and serve the community, not to exploit or degrade its members. Corporations and organizations operating in this region have a responsibility to advocate for the fair treatment of citizens, as the well-being of the community directly impacts the social license to operate. Companies that are perceived as silent or indifferent to such abuses risk being seen as complicit, which could damage their reputation and lead to a loss of consumer trust.
Reports say that even the vulnerable are not spared. The humiliation and intimidation faced by travelers, including the elderly and those in poor health, not only violate their basic human rights but also undermine the social fabric of the region. This situation creates an atmosphere of hostility and division, which is unsustainable in the long term. The unchecked power exercised by security personnel at these checkpoints is a clear example of systemic abuse that must be addressed to ensure a just and equitable society.
CSR REPORTERS requests advocacy and dialogue as a way out. Though not easy, but corporations and civil society organizations should engage in advocacy efforts to raise awareness about these abuses and push for reforms. Dialogue with government agencies, security forces, and community leaders should be initiated to address these concerns and develop solutions that respect the rights and dignity of all citizens.
Also, companies operating in the South-East region should actively engage with local communities to understand their experiences and challenges. By doing so, they can tailor their CSR initiatives to address specific needs, such as supporting local watchdog groups that monitor and report on abuses at checkpoints.
Similarly, there is an urgent need for the re-training of security personnel on human rights and ethical conduct. Corporations can partner with government agencies to fund and facilitate these training programs. Additionally, mechanisms for accountability should be strengthened, ensuring that security personnel who engage in extortion and abuse are held responsible for their actions.
Also urgent is the need for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Alignment. It is high time companies began to align their CSR strategies with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 16, which focuses on promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all, and building effective, accountable institutions. By doing so, they can contribute to the creation of a more just and sustainable environment in the region.
Organizations should also use their platforms to report on the situation transparently, highlighting the impact of these practices on the local economy, community well-being, and overall business environment. By shining a light on these issues, they can build public pressure for reform and contribute to positive change.
The current situation in the South-East is not only a human rights concern but also a significant threat to the region’s social and economic sustainability. It is imperative that all stakeholders, including corporations, government agencies, and civil society, work together to put an end to these practices and foster a culture of respect, accountability, and justice. Let’s not say, “it is not my business.” Every intervention is needed this time.
