The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Osun Sector Command, has sought collaboration with traditional rulers and community leaders in the state to reduce road accidents.
The Sector Commander, Mr Sunday Adebayo, stated this during his visit to the Olufi of Gbonganland, Oba Adetoyese Oyeniyi, on Monday in Gbongan.
Adebayo, who was accompanied by the Gbongan Unit Commander, Dr Jude Odinfono, said traditional rulers have a significant role to play in influencing public behaviour and promoting safety within their communities.
He said that 220 road traffic accidents were recorded in the state last year involving 300 vehicles, with 60 persons killed and several others injured.
The FRSC commander attributed many of the accidents to dangerous driving, speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, distracted driving, route violation and overloading.
‘We are appealing to traditional chiefs and members of the Olufi-in-Council to use their influence to discourage dangerous driving practices and promote a culture of safety among road users.
‘We are equally advising passengers to speak up when drivers conveying them drive recklessly, speeding excessively or suspected to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
‘Passengers should insist that such drivers discontinue the journey and promptly report the matter to the nearest FRSC patrol team or the police for appropriate intervention,’ Adebayo said.
He reiterated the corps’ warning that ‘speeding thrills but kills faster,’ while urging motorists to prioritise safety over speed and convenience.
Adebayo, however, said collective responsibility and community-based intervention were critical to reducing road traffic crashes and saving lives on the roads.
In his response, Oba Adetoyese Oyeniyi, the Olufi of Gbongan, acknowledged the importance of the corps’ road safety mandate, pledging the institution’s support towards promoting road safety and protecting lives within Gbonganland and its environs.
Oyeniyi, represented by the Balogun of Gbonganland, Chief Quasim Onikepe, noted that the visit would further provide opportunity to strengthen the relationship between the corps and traditional institution.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a mini library was inaugurated by the sector command for officers in Gbongan Unit Command, an initiative of Dr Jude Odinfono, Gbongan Unit Commander.