By Ibironke Ariyo
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has called for the prosecution of drivers impaired by drugs and other dangerous substances.
Egbetokun said this would go a long way in supporting the efforts of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to ensure safer Nigerian roads.
According to him, drug driving is a serious problem that can lead to accidents and deaths.
Egbetokun made the call at a joint press conference organised by the FRSC to commemorate the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims 2024 in Abuja on Monday.
The IG, represented by AIG Benneth Igweh, in charge of Zone 7, assured that the police service was always ready to collaborate with the FRSC in the management of road safety on the highways.
He said road traffic accidents (RTC) could be avoided if certain measures were implemented by the FRSC and other relevant stakeholders.
He called for the establishment of emergency hospitals, especially on national roads, and the establishment of an ambulance management system, saying these measures could help reduce RTCs.
According to him, this would minimise road deaths.
“Also, there must be surveillance and provision of testing kits for drivers who are abusing drugs; and must be prosecuted once the crime is confirmed.
“Speeding should be punished more severely; judicial proceedings and road safety tests of vehicles before they are allowed to ply on our roads,” he said.
The IG suggested the installation of CCTV cameras on national roads, which should be effectively monitored by diligent personnel, and the use of drones to monitor the roads.
Egbetokun advised the FRSC to intensify its campaign against night travel, which he considered a major cause of accidents.
According to him, the chances of rescue and survival at that time were always minimal.
He expressed the readiness of the law enforcement agencies to work with the FRSC to ensure the safety of lives and property and ensure safer roads in Nigeria at all times.
In her goodwill message, Dr. Nafisat Shehu Mohammed, President of the Road Safety Officers Wives Association (ROSOWA), said traffic violations must be thoroughly investigated.
Nafisat said the public must know that life is beautiful and safety must be promoted at all costs.
“Our support goes to those who have lost loved ones, family members and those who have sustained injuries, among others.
“This is a warning to road users to drive carefully at all costs and obey all traffic rules and regulations,” he said.
