Hon. Abdul Razak Tahidu, a member of Ghana’s parliamentary delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament, has stressed the need for continuous sensitization of security agencies at the borders of member states to ensure respect for human rights and the free movement of goods and services.
Speaking in an interview with ExpressNewsGhana, Mr. Tahidu, who is also the Member of Parliament for Chereponi, emphasized the importance of border security personnel upholding the ECOWAS protocols on free movement.
He noted that ensuring compliance with these protocols is critical to fostering regional integration and cooperation.
“It is essential to sensitize security personnel in all ECOWAS member states so that they understand the importance of respecting the protocol on free movement of people, goods, and services across borders. This has been in place since 1979 and revised periodically. Our officers need to understand that it is a priority for African nations to allow citizens to move freely, reside, and access job opportunities in other member states without hindrance,” he stated.
Mr. Tahidu also highlighted the need for closer engagement with security agencies at the borders to ensure smooth enforcement of these laws.
“We must engage our border security officers regularly, so they understand that this is an equal law across the ECOWAS region, and they must allow it to work. Human rights organizations should also be involved to monitor and ensure that individuals crossing borders are treated fairly,” he added.
He further advised that citizens travelling within ECOWAS states should possess biometric passports to facilitate ease of entry and exit without the need for visas.
“Having a biometric passport is crucial for smooth movement across borders. It ensures quick identification and entry, reducing unnecessary delays or issues at border posts,” Tahidu said.
Mr. Tahidu called for a sustained effort to educate both security personnel and the public about the ECOWAS free movement protocol, noting that doing so would enhance regional integration and ease of movement for all Africans.
Source:expressnewsghana.com