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'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - In a bid to mitigate fire-related road traffic crashes, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has intensified its safety measures with a new directive from Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed. The directive calls for the immediate commencement of special intervention patrols aimed at preventing the transportation of petroleum products and other flammable substances in passenger vehicles.
According to a statement today by Corps Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, the Corps Marshal's directive includes the massive deployment of patrol operatives across Nigeria's highways to identify vehicles carrying such dangerous substances. Upon detection, FRSC officers are instructed to ensure that the flammable substances are emptied into the vehicle’s fuel tank on the spot. Additionally, these officers will conduct awareness campaigns for drivers and passengers to educate them about the significant risks associated with carrying petroleum products in passenger vehicles.
Unlike previous operations, this special intervention patrol carries the weight of legal consequences. Drivers caught compromising the safety of their passengers by transporting flammable substances could face prosecution. Corps Marshal Mohammed emphasized that no excuses will be tolerated for such hazardous behavior, underscoring the importance of this civil engagement in safeguarding public safety.
This decisive action follows a series of recent fire-related road crashes on Nigeria's highways, which prompted an investigation ordered by the Corps Marshal. The investigation revealed that the common practice of carrying petroleum products during transit often leads to catastrophic consequences in the event of a crash. These fires result in devastating fatalities that could have been prevented.
To support the intervention patrols, the Corps Marshal has also instructed Public Education Officers nationwide to launch aggressive sensitization campaigns. These efforts aim to educate road users about the dangers of transporting flammable substances in passenger vehicles and to promote safer practices on the roads.
Corps Marshal Mohammed further urged passengers to be proactive about their own safety. He called on them to report any vehicle they suspect of carrying flammable substances to FRSC patrol teams or through the Corps' emergency lines. According to him, this collective vigilance will be crucial in curbing the reckless transportation of dangerous substances and enhancing the safety of lives and properties as commuters travel across the country.
The FRSC's renewed focus on this issue comes at a time when road safety concerns are paramount, and the Corps remains committed to reducing road traffic crashes and saving lives on Nigeria’s highways.
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