Stop driving against traffic, name-dropping senior police, govt officials – FCT police boss warns motorists

The FCT Police Command has warned motorists and other road users to desist from driving against traffic, popularly known as “one-way”, and name-dropping senior police officers and government officials when caught.

The command made this known in a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Josephine Adeh on Monday.

According to the command, calls to senior police officers or VIPs will not exonerate offenders.

The statement reads, “The FCT Police Command has warned motorists and other road users against the dangerous practice of driving against traffic, popularly known as “one-way”, particularly around road construction sites, diversion points and other areas where traffic movement has been temporarily or permanently restricted.

“The command notes with concern the increasing disregard for traffic regulations by some motorists who deliberately drive against traffic (one way), disregard road signs, bypass diversions in an attempt to evade traffic congestion.

“The command further warns against the practice of contacting senior police officers, government officials or other influential personalities to facilitate their release when apprehended for traffic violations.

“No individual, regardless of status, position or connections, will be exempted from the consequences of violating traffic regulations.”

The statement said the Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Sanusi, has consequently issued a stern directive to the command’s Motor Traffic Department (MOTOPOL) and all Divisional Traffic Officers (DTOs) to work closely with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other relevant traffic management agencies to intensify enforcement operations and ensure the arrest and immediate prosecution of any motorist found driving against traffic (one way) or disobeying lawful traffic directions.

The CP also warned enforcement officers to refrain from exploiting the exercise to extort road users.

He warned that such actions would be dealt with in accordance with extant Police Rules and Regulations.

The command therefore urged motorists to exercise patience, obey traffic signs and instructions from traffic officers.

“Road users are reminded that a few minutes saved through reckless driving are not worth the risk of losing lives or causing damage to property.

“The FCT Police Command urges residents to remain security conscious and promptly report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency numbers: 08032003913, 08061581938,” the statement further reads.