FRSC, LASTMA, and NSCDC Ramp Up Efforts for Safe Eid-el-Fitr Celebrations
In preparation for the Eid-el-Fitr festivities, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ogun State has issued a stern warning to transport unions and motorists, emphasizing strict adherence to road safety rules to prevent accidents. This initiative is part of a broader public enlightenment campaign aimed at fostering safe driving habits during and after the holiday period.
FRSC's Road Safety Campaign in Abeokuta
The FRSC Ogun Sector Command conducted a comprehensive road safety rally in Abeokuta, aligning with directives from the National Headquarters. The campaign, which began at the Sector Command Headquarters and concluded at the bustling Panseke Motor Park, involved direct engagement with drivers and commuters. FRSC personnel distributed safety flyers and used megaphones to disseminate crucial road safety messages, ensuring they reached the core of the motoring community.
Sector Commander Akinwunmi Fasakin, represented by Deputy Corps Commander Samuel Ogundayo, led the exercise. He urged all stakeholders, including transport unions and motorists, to avoid critical offences that commonly lead to preventable tragedies. These offences include excessive speeding, dangerous overtaking, overloading of passengers and goods, using mobile phones while driving, and operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or fatigue.
The primary goal of this rally is to create a crash-free environment, allowing travelers and celebrants to reach their destinations safely, Fasakin stated. He highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining road safety during the festive season.
LASTMA's Traffic Management Plan in Lagos
In Lagos, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has assured residents of seamless traffic flow during Eid-el-Fitr. General Manager Olalekan Bakare-Oki, in a goodwill message, commended Muslim faithful for their devotion and discipline during Ramadan, urging them to extend these virtues to compliance with traffic regulations.
Bakare-Oki emphasized that LASTMA will enforce traffic laws strictly before, during, and after the celebrations, adopting a zero-tolerance policy for infractions such as reckless driving, illegal parking, and one-way driving. LASTMA will not tolerate any action that endangers lives or disrupts traffic flow, he warned.
To facilitate smooth vehicular movement, LASTMA has activated a comprehensive traffic management plan. Personnel have been strategically deployed to highways, major intersections, and areas expected to see increased socio-religious activities. Officers will work round-the-clock in collaboration with other security and emergency agencies.
Bakare-Oki called for public cooperation, patience, and adherence to road safety rules, noting that collective effort is essential to prevent congestion and maintain order. He reaffirmed LASTMA's commitment to efficient traffic management, particularly during peak periods, to ensure a safer transportation system in Lagos.
NSCDC's Security Deployment in Lagos
Meanwhile, the Lagos Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 2,250 officers and men to enhance security and protect critical national assets and infrastructure during Eid-el-Fitr. State Commandant Adedotun Keshinro explained that this deployment aims to thwart potential attacks by criminal elements who often exploit festive periods for nefarious activities.
Keshinro stressed that the command has implemented data-driven intelligence and robust operational strategies to ensure peace and security before, during, and after the celebrations. Given the significance of this period, which involves increased movement of citizens and visitors into Lagos, swift security deployment is crucial, he noted.
The operational strategies are designed to rid the state of criminal elements, including vandals, whose activities could undermine economic development. Keshinro charged officers to remain vigilant, professional, and respectful of civil rights while protecting strategic locations such as public and private assets, oil pipelines, worship centers, parks, and gardens.
He warned officers to be on red alert, discharging their duties without fear or favor, and to uphold high standards of competence and integrity throughout the festive period.
