The head of Nigeria’s road safety agency has issued a stern warning to motorists, urging them to avoid “excessive speed” and drink-driving as the country celebrates Valentine’s Day. Shehu Mohammed, the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), said he has ordered a massive deployment of officers to highways across the country to prevent accidents during the festivities.
In a statement released on Friday, Mr. Mohammed confirmed that officials have been equipped with breathalysers and radar guns to catch those flouting the law.
‘Avoid unnecessary deaths’
The FRSC chief noted that Valentine’s Day—traditionally a time for showing love—should not be marred by tragedy on the roads.”Valentine’s Day is a day set aside all over the world to celebrate love,” Mr. Mohammed said. “As such, motorists who wish to celebrate must be exemplary by complying with all road traffic regulations.”He directed commanding officers to ensure “maximum enforcement,” specifically targeting:Drink-driving: Drivers suspected of being under the influence will be tested and stopped from continuing their journeys. Speeding: Radar guns will be used to monitor and penalise those driving recklessly. Youth vulnerability: The Corps Marshal specifically appealed to parents to talk to their children, noting that younger people are statistically more vulnerable to road accidents during this period.
Emergency response
Nigeria’s roads are notoriously busy during public holidays and celebrations. To mitigate the risk, the agency has placed its emergency response teams on high alert.The public has been urged to use the national 122 toll-free line to report road crashes, obstructions, or instances of reckless driving.”The presence of our officers on the road is for the good of all,” the statement concluded, reminding citizens that the goal is to ensure that “the celebration of love does not turn into a time of mourning.”
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