House of Representatives advances bill to arm FRSC officers

A bill to amend the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Act of 2007, allowing officers to bear arms, has successfully passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.

Sponsored by Rep. Abiodun Adesida (APC-Ondo) and Rep. Olaide Muhammed (APC-Oyo), the bill aims to establish a Road Safety Special Armed Squad and grant Deputy Corps Marshals benefits associated with their rank, including retirement privileges.

The proposed legislation would empower the FRSC to oversee road traffic administration and safety management, enabling the commission to regulate public road users, clear obstructions, and work towards minimizing road traffic crashes.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the commission educate drivers and the public on the proper use of public roads.

Following the second reading, Speaker Rep. Tajudeen Abbas referred the bill to the Committee on FRSC for further legislative review.

In a related development, the House urged the FRSC to adopt technology-assisted enforcement methods.

This includes implementing Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) systems and Automated Traffic Enforcement (ATE) systems, as well as leveraging advanced analytics and data platforms for better traffic management.

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This call came after the adoption of a motion by Rep. Garba Muhammad, who highlighted the dangers associated with current enforcement methods, such as physical checkpoints.

Rep. Muhammad noted that existing checkpoints, particularly those located on steep inclines, pose risks for commuters and can lead to accidents.

He expressed concerns about reports of corrupt practices among FRSC officials at these checkpoints, including soliciting bribes and impounding vehicles for minor offenses.

He argued that high-speed chases by FRSC officers also endanger bystanders and should be a last resort.

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The House has instructed the FRSC to evaluate its enforcement strategies to enhance road safety and reduce traffic violations.

The Speaker mandated the House Committee on FRSC to ensure compliance with these recommendations.