The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued a stern warning to passengers to remain vigilant and avoid boarding vehicles with reckless or intoxicated drivers, especially during the bustling festive travel period. The call comes as the nation’s highways grow busier, raising concerns over increased road accidents.
In a statement released by the Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, FRSC Corps Marshal Malam Shehu Mohammed emphasized the need for heightened caution. Recent accidents in Jebba, Kwara State, and along the Owo-Ikare route near Ose Bridge underscore the urgent need for passengers to take an active role in ensuring their safety.
Passengers are urged to observe drivers closely for any signs of drunkenness or recklessness before and during their journeys. The FRSC noted that many of the crashes recorded were linked to negligent or careless behavior by drivers, compounded by the failure of passengers to intervene or report unsafe practices to authorities.
To mitigate risks, commuters are encouraged to thoroughly assess both the driver and the vehicle before embarking on a journey. This includes checking for signs of impaired driving, evaluating the vehicle’s condition, and ensuring functional safety features such as brakes, tires, and lights. Mohammed stressed that these proactive measures could significantly reduce the likelihood of preventable accidents on the roads.
The FRSC has intensified its advocacy and sensitization campaigns to promote road safety awareness during this high-travel season. The Corps Marshal also highlighted the importance of passenger vigilance as a complementary effort to the interventions already in place by the FRSC.
As end-of-year travels gain momentum, the FRSC reiterates that passenger safety is a shared responsibility. By taking these precautions and holding drivers accountable, commuters can help create safer highways and prevent tragic road crashes.