Nigerian Army Checkpoint Allegedly Turns into Tollgate, Aladja Residents Cry Out

Residents of Aladja Community in Delta State have raised concerns over alleged financial extortion by soldiers stationed to guard Premium Steel and Mines Limited (formerly Delta Steel Company). According to reports, military personnel have imposed an unofficial curfew, blocking the community’s entrance between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. daily. However, those willing to pay are allegedly allowed to drive through the barricade.

Witnesses claim that motorists, including commercial tricycle (keke) riders transporting goods, are forced to pay before being granted passage. Many residents have expressed frustration, questioning why soldiers deployed to secure a private company are allegedly exploiting the local population for financial gain.

“This is not what the Nigerian Army stands for. Instead of protecting the people, they are making life difficult for us. Freedom of movement is a fundamental right enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, yet we are being forced to buy our way through our own community,” lamented a resident who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The situation has sparked growing tension, with the residents calling for urgent intervention from the government and military authorities. Community leaders have urged the Delta State Government and the Nigerian Army high command to investigate the allegations and put an end to the extortion.

The Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of movement, and any action that restricts this right without legal backing is considered unconstitutional. Residents are now appealing to relevant authorities to restore normalcy and ensure that security operations in the area prioritize public safety over personal gain.