Igbo think tank Aka Ikenga has strongly condemned “the gruesome violations of the rights and dignity of passengers passing through Benin bypass in Edo State.”

The group in a statement issued yesterday in Lagos by its President, Chief Goddy Uwazurike, lamented that “the harrowing experience of motorists whose only crime is that they are passing through the Federal Highway in Edo State is worse than anyone can imagine.”

According to Aka Ikenga, “First is that uniform men of different categories ambush the motorists and start making all kinds of demands on the helpless motorists who is determined in isolated places.

“Secondly, since the motorist is merely passing through the road, he is not sure whether he is a kidnap victim or not. Though, in the end, money must change hands before the motorist is released.

“The worst moment is when the motorist sees that dusk is approaching and he does not have the kind of money being demanded by the men who often claim to work for the Local Government Chairman (Oga/Madam) and the Governor.

“We have petitioned the Inspector General of the Police and copied the Governor of Edo State and the Local Government Chairman.

“Enough is enough!”

•Photo shows Aka Ikenga President, Chief Goddy Uwazurike.