In a concerted effort to mitigate road traffic accidents nationwide, the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Dauda Ali Biu, has issued directives to sector commanders. They are mandated to expeditiously establish a joint task force, comprising personnel from the Police, NSCDC, Nigerian Army, VIO, and representatives from State Governments. This joint task force is entrusted with the responsibility of conducting specialized patrol operations designed to apprehend trailers and trucks transporting humans and animals.
This directive comes in the wake of a tragic incident resulting in the loss of 18 lives and injuries to 27 individuals, as reported by Deputy Corps Marshal Bisi Kazeem. The unfortunate event unfolded at approximately 05:20 am along the Abj-Kad road, specifically at Audu Jhangon village along the expressway. The incident involved a DAF trailer with registration number KUJ 430XC, laden with goods and passengers, which lost control and veered into a ditch.
Regrettably, this incident follows a similarly fatal auto crash in Niger State, claiming 18 lives. Expressing dismay upon receiving the report, the Corps Marshal deemed the tragedy avoidable and criticized the nonchalant attitude of drivers. He asserted that these accidents could have been prevented had the drivers exercised caution and adhered to basic traffic regulations.
Preliminary investigations into both incidents revealed common factors: the involvement of trailers carrying humans and animals, and the commencement of journeys during nighttime. In response, the Corps Marshal has instructed Sector Commanders to promptly establish the joint task force. Its primary objectives are to impound and prosecute trailers and trucks involved in the transportation of humans and animals.
Furthermore, the Corps Marshal has directed the establishment of a Mobile Court for the immediate prosecution of traffic offenders as part of the operational commencement of this initiative. This multifaceted approach aims to address the immediate concerns surrounding road safety and underscore the imperative of adherence to traffic rules and regulations.
