A BILL FOR AN ACT TO ADDRESS EXTORTION, KIDNAPPING, EXTRA-JUDICIAL KILLINGS, AND RELATED CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES IN THE SOUTH-EAST REGION OF NIGERIA

Sponsored by:
Hon. Chimazuru Nnadi-Oforgu
“Duruebube Uzii na Abosi”
Email: chimazuru65@gmail.com
Tel: 08072313955
Date: January 31, 2025

FOR THE ATTENTION OF:

1. His Excellency, The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

2. His Excellency, The President of the Senate

3. His Excellency, The Honorable Speaker of the House of Representatives

4. Their Excellencies, The Executive Governors of the South-East States

5. The National Security Adviser

6. The Inspector General of Police

7. The Chief of Army Staff

EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM:

This Bill seeks to urgently address the escalating insecurity in Nigeria’s South-East region, characterized by extortion, kidnapping, extra-judicial killings, and other criminal activities. The Bill outlines detailed proposals aimed at dismantling illegal roadblocks, strengthening security oversight and accountability, prosecuting offenders, supporting victims, and implementing community policing initiatives. It emphasizes rebuilding trust between the government and citizens by promoting transparency, professionalism, and rule of law enforcement.

We understand the difficulties in bringing about lasting change, particularly when old habits and corrupt practices have become entrenched over the years. These illegal activities are driven by vested interests and powerful cartels within the security forces and criminal networks. Nonetheless, Nigeria must prevail. Fight we must—for justice, for peace, and for the survival of the nation. The fight will be difficult, but it is a fight we cannot afford to lose.

PART I – PRELIMINARY

1. Short Title:
This Act may be cited as the South-East Security and Accountability Act, 2025.

2. Commencement:
This Act shall come into effect on the date it is signed into law.

3. Interpretation:
In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires:
a. “Security Forces” includes personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, and any other state-recognized security agencies.
b. “Non-state actors” includes individuals or groups engaging in criminal activities such as kidnapping, extortion, and armed violence.
c. “Community policing initiatives” refers to programs that promote collaboration between law enforcement and community stakeholders to enhance public safety.

PART II – PROPOSED SOLUTIONS AND ACTIONS

1. Immediate Action to Dismantle Illegal Checkpoints

Context:
Illegal roadblocks in the South-East have become notorious for extortion, with both military and police personnel exploiting road users under the guise of maintaining security. These checkpoints have not only hindered free movement but also worsened insecurity by enabling corruption and abuse of power.

Proposal:

The Inspector-General of Police, Chief of Army Staff, and related commanders are mandated to:
a. Identify and dismantle all unauthorized checkpoints in the South-East within 30 days of this Act’s commencement.
b. Submit compliance reports to the National Assembly and state governors.

Penalties:

Any security personnel found involved in operating or benefiting from unauthorized roadblocks shall face:
a. A minimum of seven (7) years imprisonment and dismissal from service.
b. Confiscation of any illicit proceeds obtained through such activities.

Implementation:

The South-East Security Oversight Commission (SESOC) will oversee the dismantling of roadblocks through regular spot checks and monitoring.

2. Independent Oversight and Investigation Mechanism

Context:
There is a significant gap in oversight of security operations, resulting in widespread abuses, including extra-judicial killings, extortion, and unlawful detentions. Current internal accountability mechanisms are inadequate and compromised.

Proposal:

Establish an independent South-East Security Oversight Commission (SESOC) tasked with:
a. Investigating allegations of misconduct by security personnel.
b. Auditing security operations quarterly.
c. Making recommendations for disciplinary actions and prosecution where necessary.

Composition:

SESOC shall consist of representatives from the judiciary, civil society, the National Human Rights Commission, and law enforcement agencies to ensure impartiality and transparency.

Reporting:

SESOC shall submit biannual reports to the National Assembly, state governments, and relevant stakeholders.

3. Strengthened Anti-Kidnapping Measures

Context:
Kidnapping for ransom has become rampant in the South-East, with organized gangs and criminal networks targeting both residents and travelers. Victims’ families are often forced to pay exorbitant ransoms with little assurance of recovery or protection.

Proposal:

Establish rapid response units specialized in counter-kidnapping operations across the region.

Create a national hotline for the immediate reporting of kidnapping incidents.

Punishment:

Convicted kidnappers shall face life imprisonment without parole.

Individuals or entities providing logistical or financial support to kidnapping operations shall be prosecuted and sentenced to fifteen (15) years imprisonment.

Victim Support:

Victims and their families shall receive psychological support and assistance through the Victims Support Fund established under this Act.

4. Community Policing and Intelligence Collaboration

Context:
Security operations in the South-East often lack effective collaboration with local communities, leading to distrust and inadequate intelligence gathering. Community engagement is essential to improving security outcomes.

Proposal:

Implement community policing initiatives that involve traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organizations.

Establish community security committees to assist in intelligence sharing and crime prevention.

Training:

Security personnel shall undergo regular training on human rights, ethical conduct, and community engagement strategies.

5. Protection and Compensation for Victims

Context:
Victims of security abuses, kidnapping, and extortion often receive little to no support. Many families face financial ruin due to ransom payments and other extortionate demands.

Proposal:

Establish a Victims Support Fund to provide financial compensation, legal aid, and psychological counseling to victims.

Implement a witness protection program to safeguard individuals who provide critical information for investigations and prosecutions.

Eligibility:

Victims and witnesses shall be assessed and approved by SESOC to ensure access to support services.

6. Security Sector Reform and Accountability

Context:
The lack of accountability within the security sector has contributed to widespread corruption, abuse, and human rights violations. Reforms are needed to restore professionalism and integrity.

Proposal:

Mandate ethics and anti-corruption training programs for all security personnel.

Establish independent monitoring mechanisms to track and evaluate the performance of security forces.

Prosecution:

Officers found guilty of misconduct, corruption, or human rights violations shall face disciplinary measures and criminal prosecution.

7. Economic Empowerment and Crime Prevention Initiatives

Context:
High unemployment and poverty levels in the South-East have fueled crime and insecurity. Economic opportunities are crucial to preventing vulnerable youths from being recruited by criminal groups.

Proposal:

Federal and state governments shall provide incentives for industries and businesses to invest in the South-East.

Implement vocational training and entrepreneurship programs targeting unemployed youths.

Prioritize infrastructure development in transport, healthcare, and education to create long-term economic stability.

PART III – IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORK

8. Funding:

Funding for this Act shall be appropriated by the National Assembly, with additional support from public-private partnerships.

9. Monitoring and Evaluation:

SESOC shall submit biannual progress reports to the National Assembly, detailing the dismantling of roadblocks, criminal investigations, and community policing efforts.

10. Public Awareness Campaigns:

The Federal Ministry of Information and Culture shall collaborate with media organizations to create awareness about this Act and its security reforms.

EXPLANATORY NOTE:

This Bill seeks to urgently address the worsening security crisis in the South-East region by promoting accountability, transparency, and collaboration between security forces and communities. It aims to restore peace, protect victims, and create conditions for long-term socio-economic stability.

Sponsored by:
Hon. Chimazuru Nnadi-Oforgu
“Duruebube Uzii na Abosi”

Email:chimazuru65@gmail.com

Tel: 08072313955

Signed:

Hon. Chima I. Nnadi-Oforgu
_____________________
Date: January 31, 2025