The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Malam Shehu Mohammed, has reiterated his warning to truck and trailer drivers against loading humans on top of goods, especially during the Eid-El-Kabir celebrations across Nigeria. He emphasized that this practice poses significant dangers to both the individuals being transported in such a manner and other road users.
During a traffic monitoring operation on Saturday in Abuja, Mohammed personally oversaw the impoundment of a vehicle that was found loaded with goods and human beings on top. He directed that all passengers seated atop the goods be immediately disembarked, and the vehicle was subsequently impounded as a consequence.
Despite consistent warnings and enforcement efforts by the FRSC, Mohammed expressed concern over the persistent violations of traffic rules and regulations across the country. He stressed that adherence to these rules is crucial for ensuring safer highways and the smooth flow of traffic. The ongoing nationwide special operation by the FRSC aims to address these excesses among motorists.
Mohammed highlighted that the FRSC has deployed extensive logistics to enhance visibility and monitoring, including deploying over 41,000 personnel, comprising regular marshals and special marshals. Additionally, more than 700 patrol vehicles, ambulances, and tow trucks have been deployed to various locations nationwide.
During his inspection in Zuba, Abuja, Mohammed noted several instances of traffic violations, such as overloading vehicles with passengers exceeding seat capacity, both in the front and back seats. He emphasized the need for collective action to curb these practices, underscoring their negative impact on the image of the Federal Territory (FCT), the nation, and the FRSC itself.
Mohammed concluded by calling on the motoring public, particularly drivers, to continue obeying traffic rules and regulations. He also appealed to passengers to engage with drivers to avoid traffic offenses, particularly serious infractions like overloading, overspeeding, and dangerous driving. Assuring Nigerians of the FRSC’s commitment to ensuring a safe motoring environment, he reminded everyone that driving safely is essential for everyone’s well-being and survival on the roads.