As Christians across Nigeria prepare for the annual Easter celebration, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued a crucial safety advisory to motorists, emphasizing the need for strict compliance with road traffic rules. The call comes amid a nationwide rise in vehicular movements typical of festive periods, especially in Ogun State, which is a key gateway between Lagos and several parts of the country.
The Ifo Unit Commander of the FRSC in Ogun State, Mr. Memee Timothy, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday. He cautioned road users to avoid reckless behaviors such as speeding, overloading, driving under the influence of alcohol, and disobeying traffic signs during the Easter holidays.
“Motorists should refrain from speeding, wrongful overtaking, and driving against traffic, which could lead to unnecessary loss of lives during Easter. They should also stop overloading and drunk driving to minimize road crashes,” he said.
In a move to ensure road safety and reduce accidents, the Corps has deployed additional personnel to monitor high-risk roads and intervene during emergencies, including vehicular breakdowns. According to Timothy, officers will be stationed at strategic junctions, road construction sites, and areas notorious for traffic congestion to ensure smooth vehicular movement and enforce compliance.
The Easter period often sees increased movement of goods and people across Nigeria, especially from urban centers to rural areas. This surge usually stretches the nation’s road infrastructure and increases the risk of road traffic accidents. In response, the FRSC traditionally activates a nationwide Easter Special Patrol, backed by sister agencies, to safeguard lives on Nigerian roads.
“We are appealing to motorists to cooperate with FRSC personnel and other sister agencies to make Easter a hitch-free festival,” Timothy added.
He also reiterated the FRSC’s commitment to ensuring that all road users travel safely to their various destinations, warning that officers will not hesitate to sanction violators.
“Our men will be at strategic places and road construction areas to arrest those who are overloading and driving without a driver’s licence. Safety is a collective responsibility, and all hands must be on deck to make this Easter celebration safe and memorable for all Nigerians.”
The recent warnings are not without justification. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria recorded over 10,000 road traffic crashes in 2024 alone, resulting in more than 5,000 deaths. The majority of these accidents were attributed to human errors such as speeding, distracted driving, and intoxication.
In Ogun State specifically, the FRSC has frequently flagged the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and Abeokuta-Sango-Ota corridors as high-risk routes due to heavy traffic flow, commercial activities, and road construction.
Road safety experts and public affairs analysts have lauded the FRSC’s proactive approach but stressed that consistent public enlightenment is essential.
“Beyond enforcement, there must be aggressive public awareness campaigns before and during festive seasons,” said Dr. Tolu Ogunmola, a road safety advocate. “People need to understand that every reckless action on the road can lead to irreversible loss.”
Civil society groups have also urged transport unions, churches, and local governments to collaborate with the FRSC to educate drivers and passengers about their role in promoting safety.
As Nigeria celebrates Easter—a period symbolizing life, sacrifice, and hope—the FRSC’s call serves as a critical reminder that safety begins with individual responsibility. Motorists are encouraged to adhere strictly to road rules, avoid risky behavior, and maintain their vehicles to prevent mechanical failures.
With robust inter-agency collaboration, timely response to emergencies, and public cooperation, the Easter celebration can indeed be hitch-free and joyful for families across the country.