The federal government's launch of a new Coastal Highway Guards unit has triggered mixed reactions, with civil society activist Segalink warning that the outfit may lack legal authority to make arrests. The unit, introduced by Minister of Works Senator Dave Umahi on Sunday, August 9, began with 40 officers assigned to secure the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway. The announcement was first shared by journalist Jubril A. Gawat via his X account.
Segalink Raises Legal Concerns Over New Security Unit
In a post on X, Segalink argued that creating a new security outfit outside existing legislation could render its operations counterproductive. He suggested that established agencies like the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) or the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were better suited for the role, without the need for an entirely new unit.
"With all due respect, Distinguished Hon. Minister @realdaveumahi, while we understand the need to protect critical infrastructure, we must avoid creating needless silos," Segalink wrote. He added that officers created outside legislation would not hold lawful authority to arrest suspects, which could undermine their effectiveness.
Comparison to Mining Marshals Controversy
Segalink drew a parallel to a similar situation involving the Ministry of Solid Minerals, where former Minister Dele Alake initially sought to establish mining marshals before eventually deploying the NSCDC following public pushback. "We must be careful with the over-militarisation of the state with silos when we can use what we already have," he urged, calling on the Works Minister to reconsider and channel the responsibility to an agency with an existing legal mandate.
His comments drew a range of responses. @justice7jesus disagreed, arguing the new unit could help tackle youth unemployment: "I respectfully disagree with you. Our teeming youths barely have jobs in this economy. I see this as an avenue to create new jobs for the unemployed. Pls stop opposing it!!!"
Public Reactions: Support and Scepticism
@Memphislit1 expressed scepticism about the personnel, writing: "Boss sega, you are talking plenty English ooo, abeg when you look at the picture or video posted, don't they look like the ones who would vandalise and sell." @Slim_1313_ pointed to a detail in the original announcement: "I think the press release stated clearly that they will be working alongside some more security agencies like police, NSCDC and some more forces to secure the coastal highways."
@BashirGamawa1 took a more measured position, saying: "With due respect, I disagree. A dedicated coastal road security outfit can strengthen infrastructure protection while also creating jobs and opportunities for unemployed youths. What matters is proper regulation, training and coordination with existing security agencies."
The debate highlights the tension between innovative security approaches and legal frameworks, with the Coastal Highway Guards now operational but facing questions about their statutory powers as they work to secure one of Nigeria's major infrastructure projects.
