The Federal Road Safety Commission FRSC says it recorded 159 deaths in 850 road accidents with 1,572 people who sustained various degrees of injuries in the Federal Capital Territory between January and November 2021.
FCT Sector Commander of FRSC Mr Samuel Ochi who stated this at the opening of an annual Special Marshals sectorial workshop in Abuja said the increasing number of road accidents if not quickly addressed could constitute a major impediment to the economic growth of the territory.
While appreciating the contributions of special Marshals to effective traffic control in the FCT, the sector Commander urged them to brace up for greater performance beyond Ember Months Campaign
The Zonal Commanding officer in charge of the FCT and Niger State, Assistant Corps Marshal Jonas Agwu identified non-use of pedestrian bridges, Speed Limit violation, driving under the influence of alcohol, and non-use of seat belts as major causes of road accidents.
Assistant Corps Marshal Agwu however appealed to the FCT Administration to address inadequate road signs and non-functional traffic lights which contributed to the rate of road accidents in the territory.
Speaking on the theme: Volunteerism Beyond Ember Months: The Role of Special Marshals in Combating Road Traffic Crashes, The FCT coordinator of Special Marshals Mr Sanni Adisa pledged the support of the Volunteers to FRSC Campaign in providing safer roads for users.
Mr Adisa reiterated the special Marshals’ readiness in carrying road safety campaigns to schools, religious Institutions, Public Places, and motor parks to instill safety culture in motorists, particularly commercial drivers.
The National Coordinator of Special Marshals Dr John Ugberbor urged members of the volunteer service to live above board and be Safety ambassadors of FRSC.
Representatives of the FCT Road Traffic Service, Nigeria Police Force, and other stakeholders in the Transport Sector pleged to join hands with the FRSC in bringing sanity to the roads in the Six area Council of the FCT.
RN