The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced that it will prioritize educating passengers about their rights in order to help prevent road accidents. The FRSC Sector Commander, Mr. Muftau Irekeola, shared this information during a press briefing for the 2024 Ember Months campaign in Ilorin on Tuesday.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the theme for this year’s campaign is “Speak Up Against Dangerous Driving: Crashes Kill More Passengers Than Drivers.”
Irekeola noted that during the Ember months, roads tend to experience heavy traffic, congestion, and an unfortunate rise in accidents, resulting in loss of lives and property due to increased road activity across the country.
He identified several factors that contribute to road accidents, including drivers’ behavior and the passengers’ often passive attitude towards reckless driving. “There needs to be a clear understanding between drivers and passengers. Drivers must ensure their passengers reach their destinations safely,” he explained. “Passengers have the right to travel without fear of injury, death, harassment, or violation of their rights.”
The sector commander also revealed that FRSC officers have been instructed to engage more directly with commuters to ensure they are aware of safety regulations, report reckless driving, use seat belts, and support safe driving practices.
“FRSC is committed to educating all road users. By empowering passengers with the right knowledge, we can reduce traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities,” Irekeola stated. He also highlighted the agency’s enhanced public awareness efforts, including initiatives such as large-scale town hall meetings, motorcades, and advocacy at transit and rest areas as well as loading bays.
These efforts aim to encourage passengers to assert their rights and actively challenge dangerous driving behaviors, as data shows that more passengers are killed in road crashes than drivers. “Therefore, it is crucial for passengers to be vigilant and take responsibility for their own safety while traveling,” he concluded.
