The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Kebbi State has called on commuters to actively report reckless driving in a bid to reduce the rising incidents of road traffic crashes (RTCs).
The Sector Commander of FRSC in Kebbi, Mr. Tenimu Yusuf-Etuku, made the appeal at a press conference on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi, outlining the Corps’ plans for the 2024 Ember Months campaign.
Yusuf-Etuku highlighted that the festive period often sees increased traffic congestion as many people travel home for family reunions and ceremonies.
This, he said, leads to higher risks of road traffic accidents, gridlocks, and loss of lives and property.
He further stressed that the recklessness of some motorists exacerbates the situation, creating a “horrifying nightmare” for stakeholders, including travelers, government agencies, and security forces.
The 2024 Ember Months campaign, according to the Sector Commander, will focus on aggressive sensitization efforts aimed at encouraging passengers to speak up against dangerous driving.
He urged commuters to report any incidents of reckless driving using the FRSC Mobile Application or by calling the FRSC emergency toll-free number, 122.
“We are emphasizing the need for passengers to assert their rights and report dangerous driving behavior. More passengers are killed in road crashes than drivers, and it’s crucial that they play an active role in ensuring their safety,” Yusuf-Etuku said.
As part of the campaign, the FRSC plans to organize mega town hall meetings, motorcades, advocacy at transit rest areas, and public outreach at loading bays.
These initiatives are aimed at re-educating passengers about their rights and encouraging them to take responsibility for their safety on the roads.
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The theme for this year’s campaign is: “Speak Up Against Dangerous Driving: Crashes Kill More Passengers than Drivers.”
Yusuf-Etuku called on the motoring public, especially passengers, to report any drivers contravening traffic regulations to FRSC patrol operatives or other security agencies along their routes.
He also noted that the press briefing was in line with the directive from the Corps Marshal of FRSC, Malam Shehu Mohammed, who has instructed Commanding Officers to initiate extensive public enlightenment campaigns across the country.
Yusuf-Etuku concluded by urging commuters to always know their rights and speak out against unsafe driving practices in order to help curb road traffic crashes during the busy Ember Months period.