By Ibironke Ariyo
The Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) is to inaugurate a comprehensive programme tagged “Operation safety drive” in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) aimed at curbing reckless driving and reducing road accidents.
Dr Yusuf Suberu, Squadron Leader, the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) Mayors of the Federation, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.
Suberu said the initiative focused on enforcing traffic rules, conducting vehicle inspections and educating drivers on safe driving practices.
He said the study showed that the actions of drivers contributed to a staggering 94 per cent of all road traffic accidents (RTCs).
According to him, reckless driving is a major contributor to road accidents in the FCT and the mayors are determined to tackle this menace head on.
“This program focuses specifically on drivers because the actions of drivers, whether it’s something they did, like speeding, or something they didn’t do, such as not paying attention to the task of driving, are responsible for the majority of accidents.
“As part of the safety campaign, VIO mayors will send teams of inspectors to major highways and intersections to monitor compliance with traffic laws.
“Drivers caught breaking traffic rules will face penalties including fines, driver’s license suspension and mandatory safety seminars.”
Suberu said VIO mayors would partner with local communities and stakeholders to promote road safety awareness and encourage responsible driving habits.
He stressed that safety was a collective responsibility and called on drivers to join forces with VIO mayors to make the roads safer.
He said the initiative is expected to run from August 1 to December 31, with the VIO monitoring its impact and adjusting its strategies as necessary.
“By targeting reckless driving and motorists, we aim to significantly reduce road accidents and make the FCT a safer place for all road users,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the VIO chairmen are volunteers, assisting professional traffic managers in the 36 states and the FCT to alleviate congestion and traffic problems through a broad volunteer approach.
