• Governor says 92% of road crashes occur as a result of over speeding
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
In a concerted effort to promote road safety and curb the alarming trend of accidents caused by overspeeding during the Ember months, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Nasarawa Sector Command launched its 2023 Ember Month Campaign under the theme “Speed Drills But Kills.”
The event, held at the Yahaya Sabo Bus Terminal in Lafia on Wednesday, received significant support from the Nasarawa State Government, with Governor Sule being ably represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Emmanuel Akabe.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Governor Akabe emphasized the importance of road safety, urging the FRSC to continue sensitizing drivers and all road users, as well as those entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring road safety.
He highlighted that the Ember months are periods when people plan to reunite with their loved ones for celebrations, making road safety paramount. “It is crucial to avoid overspeeding and the consumption of illicit drugs or substances,” he said.
Akabe also stressed the necessity for drivers to adhere to traffic rules and regulations. He warned that negligence in this regard could lead to accidents, emphasizing that a few minutes of patience on the road could prevent devastating crashes.
Alhaji Danjuma Abubakar, representing the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) chairman, expressed his appreciation for the FRSC’s efforts in enlightening drivers. He commended the initiative and pledged support for its objectives.
Earlier in the program, Sabo Innocent Maigari the Nasarawa FRSC Sector Commander, presented startling statistics indicating that a significant number of road users opt for used tires, which are costlier and more prone to causing accidents compared to new ones.
He also cautioned against night travel due to its inherent risks, emphasizing the importance of planning journeys carefully. He further appreciated Governor Sule for the state’s beautiful Yahaya Sabo Bus Terminal, calling it one of the nation’s best. He urged the governor to extend such initiatives to other strategic areas within the state.
Maigari noted that a staggering 92 percent of road crashes in Nasarawa State result from overspeeding, further underscoring the critical importance of the “Speed Drills But Kills” campaign. The launch event served as a significant step in the commitment to enhance road safety and prevent accidents during the Ember months.