By Ishaq Dan-Imam, Lokoja
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has mobilized 925 personnel, 25 patrol vehicles, four ambulances, and towing trucks on highways for an accident-free Sallah celebration in Kogi State, North Central Nigeria.
Corps Commander, the Kogi State FRSC Sector Commander, Stephen Dawulung, made this known in a statement in Lokoja on Sunday.
The Sector Commander said the Special Patrol became imperative due to the recklessness of some motorists during festivities like Sallah.
Dawulung said that the officials deployed comprised well-trained Regular and Special Marshals that were equipped with breathalyzers and other surveillance equipment to keep watch over traffic on the highways.
“This deployment is in line with the mandate to ensure free and safe vehicular movements within and across the state during the Sallah holiday.
“FRSC Kogi Sector Command is set to commence the six-day 2023 Eid-el-Kabir (Sallah) Special Patrol Operation in earnest from June 26 to July 1.
“Preparatory to this, the Command has deployed 925 men, 25 patrol vehicles, 4 ambulances, and tow trucks to critical road corridors within Kogi State.
“The objectives of this Special Patrol is to ensure drastic reduction of road traffic crashes, fatalities and injuries, and prompt rescue of crash victims,” he said.
The Sector Commander disclosed some strategies to be deployed to achieve the desired objectives of the special patrol including robust public enlightenment, enforcement against critical offenses, clearance of obstructions, and traffic control.
He, however, affirmed the readiness, capabilities, and commitment of his men in resolving all vehicular traffic encumbrances within the state towards ensuring that motorists enjoy free and safe travels within and across the state.
Dawulung advised motorists to always adhere to road traffic regulations, exhibit the highest level of caution and discipline, and avoid any unwholesome practices such as speeding and overloading.
He frowned at motorists’ deliberate use of worn-out tyres and night journeys that may jeopardize their safety.
While wishing travelers a fruitful Eid-el-Kabir celebration, he reminded them that safety was key as only the living celebrate.
