The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) is to begin a clampdown on rickety vehicles across the country in a bid to reduce road accidents.
According to a statement by the FRSC’s Public Education Officer, Bizi Kazeem, the Corps Marshal, Dr Boboye Oyeyemi, had already directed Commanding Officers across all formations to commence immediate clampdown on rickety vehicles plying the oads.
Kazeem said the clampdown is an integral part of rejigged efforts of the Corps in 2021 to further reduce road traffic crashes across the country.
.”The Corps Marshal stated that the operation, which will be conducted nationwide, forms part of the Corps’ commitment towards enhancing the tempo of its operational activities and create a safer motoring environment in the country, premised on the realisation of its 2021 strategic goals of reducing road traffic crashes by 15 per cent and fatalities by 20 per cent.
“While recalling the common sight of poorly-maintained vehicles on the nation highways which often break down and result in obstructions of traffic flow, the Corps Marshal enjoined motorists to ensure regular maintenance of their vehicles in view of inherent traffic hazards associated with abandoned broken down vehicles especially at night.
“He highlighted the health, safety and economic benefits of regular vehicle maintenance, noting that if drivers and vehicle owners will adhere to constant maintenance of their vehicles, safety of lives and properties will be enhanced and the statutory role of the Corps summarised in making the over 204,000 km road network in Nigeria safe for all users.”
Explaining the seriousness of the issue, Kazeem said severe punishment awaits anyone apprehended in the act, including impoundment of the vehicle, payment of fines and compulsory road safety education.