Drivers driving against traffic in A’Ibom to face prosecution – FRSC

Akpan Umoh, Uyo

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) is to prosecute drivers in Akwa Ibom State driving against traffic (one-way drive), adding that one-way driving is the major cause of road traffic crashes in the state.

The FRSC Sector Commander in Akwa Ibom, Mr Matthew Olonisaye, said this in a press statement issued in Uyo and made available to newsmen on Wednesday.

Olonisaye said that drivers and riders in the state were in the habit of indulging in unsafe road traffic culture that must be stopped forthwith.

“The Federal Road Safety Corps, Akwa Ibom State Command has observed with dismay the rate at which drivers and Riders exhibit and indulge in unsafe road use culture.

“The practice of driving against traffic (one-way drive) along major routes in the state without recourse to the grave dangers associated with this ugly trend, especially the reoccurrence effect of crashes and the attendant loss of lives and properties.

“The observed trend of an unwholesome act that has become a common practice among some drivers and riders, who take delight in throwing caution to the wind and undermine the safety of other road users while plying Akwa Ibom routes shall be addressed with a holistic approach,” Olonisaye said.

The sector commander said the Corps in collaboration with other security agencies in the state would embark on serious patrol across the state to stem the tide and reduce road crashes in the state.

He urged drivers, riders and other road users to adhere strictly to traffic rules and regulations as defaulters caught during the exercise would be prosecuted and penalised in line with the extant laws and traffic safety regulations.

Olonisaye said considering the need and concern for the safety of the general public there is a need for a positive change of attitude and orientation to engender and instil the safe driving habits in all road users in the state.

“The FRSC officer and men will embark on special joint operation with other security agencies in ensuring non-tolerance to any blatant noncompliance or fragrance disobedience to traffic rules as any offender apprehended for violating any such critical offences like driving against traffic (one way drive) dangerous driving etc, shall be subjected,” he said.

He said that drivers engaging in dangerous driving in an attempt to evade arrest or attack its operatives carrying out their lawful duties would be made to face the full wrath of the law.

Olonisaye, however, acknowledged the effort of all stakeholders who contributed in one way or the other towards the advancement of road safety in the state.

He said, “We must strive to protect and safeguard our lives especially while using the roads, and as well remain active by observing traffic rules and regulations always and report road and other emergencies promptly to the FRSC toll-free line- 122.”