Mararaba: The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has urged motorists and other road users to drive responsibly and obey traffic rules to reduce road crashes during the Sallah festive period. FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, gave the advice at a Sallah Mega Rally held at the Sani Abacha Park, Mararaba, Nasarawa State.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mohammed, represented by Felicia Kalu, Acting Corps Public Education Officer (ACPEO), noted that road crashes usually increase during festive periods because many drivers fail to adhere to basic road safety regulations. He mentioned that crashes recorded during festive periods are not caused by mysterious factors, but by the behavior of road users. He emphasized that when drivers obey simple traffic rules and maintain their vehicles properly, there will be fewer road traffic crashes.
The FRSC chief advised drivers embarking on long-distance journeys to ensure they were well rested and that their vehicles were in good condition before traveling. He also warned against driving vehicles that had been parked for long periods without proper servicing. Mohammed urged drivers to check their tyres, ensure vehicle components are functioning properly, and avoid distractions while driving.
In addition, Mohammed cautioned drivers against accepting packages to be delivered along travel routes, noting that such activities could distract drivers and increase the risk of crashes. He further appealed to passengers to play active roles in ensuring safety by cautioning drivers against reckless behavior and reporting them if necessary.
The choice of Sani Abacha Park for the rally was strategic as it serves as a major transit point for travelers heading to the northern part of the country. The FRSC chief reiterated that road safety was the responsibility of all road users and emphasized the need for strict compliance with traffic regulations during the festive season.
Mohammed warned motorists against traffic violations such as speeding and overloading, noting these offences were common during festive periods when travelers were often in a hurry. FRSC personnel have been deployed across major highways to monitor compliance with traffic regulations, and mobile courts have been introduced to ensure speedy trial of offenders.
The FRSC is also paying attention to specific offences, including the use of vehicles with fake or unauthorized number plates, and urged motorists and passengers to cooperate with road safety officials to ensure a crash-free Sallah celebration.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Sani Abacha Motor Park, Mr. Muhammad Sani, urged drivers to prioritize safety and comply with transport regulations during the Sallah festive travels. He revealed that the park executives regularly hold meetings with drivers and vehicle owners to ensure strict compliance with safety guidelines, especially regarding passenger capacity.
Sani advised drivers to exercise patience and caution on the highways, stressing that safety should not be compromised because of the rush associated with festive travel. He appealed to drivers and passengers to cooperate with authorities to ensure safe journeys during the Sallah celebrations.