Stay Safe On The Roads: FRSC Warns Against Unsafe Vehicles During Festive Travels

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued an important safety alert to passengers ahead of the busy festive season. Malam Shehu Mohammed, the Corps Marshal, urged commuters to remain vigilant when boarding vehicles to avoid preventable road accidents.

In a statement released by the Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO), Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, the FRSC stressed the heightened risk of road crashes as the year draws to a close, with increased travel activity across the nation.

Heightened Risk Due to Holiday Traffic

Mohammed noted that end-of-year travel is marked by heavier road usage, which calls for extra caution. The warning follows two tragic accidents that occurred recently: one in Jebba, Kwara State, on December 26, and another on the Owo-Ikare route near Ose bridge.

Watch Out for Reckless or Drunk Drivers

To minimize road crashes, the FRSC has intensified advocacy and awareness campaigns. Passengers were urged to be alert to signs of reckless or intoxicated driving, both before embarking on and during their trips.

“Negligence and recklessness by drivers were major contributors to the recent accidents,” said Mohammed. “Passengers must take responsibility by observing their drivers’ behavior, calling them to order when necessary, and reporting issues to the FRSC or other security agencies along their route.”

Passenger Responsibilities for Safer Travel

The FRSC highlighted key safety practices passengers should adopt:

Assess the Driver’s Condition: Ensure the driver is not showing signs of drunkenness or reckless behavior.
Inspect the Vehicle: Check the vehicle’s tires, brakes, and lighting systems to confirm they are in good condition.
Stay Aware During the Journey: Continuously monitor the driver’s behavior and remain proactive about safety concerns.

Prioritizing Road Safety

Malam Shehu Mohammed reiterated that passenger vigilance plays a significant role in preventing road crashes. “Safety is a shared responsibility. By being cautious and proactive, commuters can greatly reduce the risk of accidents on our highways,” he emphasized.

Conclusion

The FRSC’s message is clear: road safety starts with awareness. Passengers are encouraged to prioritize their well-being by making informed decisions and holding drivers accountable for safe driving practices. Together, these efforts will complement the FRSC’s interventions aimed at reducing road crashes nationwide.