'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has lauded the Sokoto State Government for its unwavering support and collaboration with the FRSC, describing the partnership as a model for other states to emulate.
According to a statement today by the Corp's Spokesperson, Oluwasegun Ogungbemide, the commendation came during his two-day familiarization tour of the Sokoto State Sector Command, where he addressed staff, stakeholders, and the media on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.
Speaking at the combined parade of FRSC staff, Special Marshals, and members of the Road Safety Club, Corps Marshal Mohammed highlighted the state government’s contributions to enhancing road safety in Sokoto. He particularly noted the significant impact of ongoing road construction and rehabilitation projects, which have led to a reduction in route violations by drivers and a consequent decline in road traffic crashes.
"The donation of a patrol vehicle to the Sector Command by the Sokoto State Government, alongside other promises of support from the Governor, demonstrates a commendable commitment to the FRSC’s mission of reducing road traffic crashes in Nigeria," Mohammed stated. He emphasized that such gestures not only bolster the Corps’ operational capacity but also motivate staff to deliver exceptional service.
The Corps Marshal also expressed gratitude to FRSC personnel for their dedication and sacrifices, particularly during the successful 2024 end-of-year special patrol operations. He reassured staff of the Management’s commitment to addressing welfare issues, capacity development, and the timely conduct of promotion exercises. "We will continue to reward excellence and discipline, while ensuring that indiscipline is met with appropriate consequences," he affirmed.
Reflecting on his early career as a young officer in Sokoto, Mohammed urged staff to uphold integrity, diligence, and due process in their duties. He warned against indiscipline, both on the road and within the office, stressing the importance of accountability. "Every staff member must realize that they are accountable for their actions and must work diligently to justify the trust placed in them by the government and the people of Nigeria," he added.
On the national front, the Corps Marshal acknowledged the Federal Government’s support for road safety initiatives, thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing logistics that have enhanced the FRSC’s operational efficiency. He pledged to leave no stone unturned in his efforts to reinvigorate the Corps for improved service delivery.
However, Mohammed expressed concern over the persistent issues of overloading and mix-loading by some drivers in Sokoto, which he identified as major contributors to preventable road traffic crashes. He also condemned the dangerous practice of scooping fuel from crashed tankers, describing it as a reckless act that endangers lives.
"The actions of individuals who rush to scoop fuel at crash scenes, knowing full well that petroleum products are highly inflammable, are not only irresponsible but also life-threatening," he said. He called on stakeholders, including the media, to intensify public awareness campaigns to curb such behaviors and promote safer road practices.
During his visit, the Corps Marshal engaged with critical stakeholders and media representatives, emphasizing the shared responsibility of road traffic management. He urged all Nigerians to actively participate in efforts to create safer road environments.
The two-day visit is set to continue on Thursday, February 13, 2025, with meetings scheduled with the Sokoto State Governor and the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Saad Abubakar III. These engagements are expected to further strengthen collaboration between the FRSC, the state government, and traditional institutions in advancing road safety initiatives.
The FRSC remains committed to its mandate of reducing road traffic crashes and fatalities across Nigeria, with the support of state governments, stakeholders, and the public.
