CITIZENS COMPASS—The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has again manifested its commitment to road safety, integrity, and the rule of law as it successfully prosecuted 35 traffic offenders, convicting 34 and discharging one, during a mobile court session held along the Calabar, Ikom Highway at Pamol, Cross River State, on Tuesday.
A statement by the Corps’ Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, and made available to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP) revealed that the Mobile Court session, carried out under the general operational area of the Cross River Sector Command, saw a total of 70 traffic offences committed by 35 drivers brought before the court, a significant step in curbing the growing disregard for road safety regulations by a section of the motoring public.
Among the most alarming revelations during the court session was the prosecution of 12 motorists who attempted to bribe FRSC operatives, a clear violation that the Corps views with utmost seriousness.
This decisive enforcement action is a clear reaffirmation of the Corps’ zero tolerance to traffic violations and corrupt practices that endanger lives and undermine national safety objectives. It also sends a strong message to the motoring public that indiscipline on our roads has never and will never be tolerated, as justice will always be served without compromise at all times.
A comprehensive list of the offences prosecuted indicates that there were six failures to install speed limiter, 12 attempts to corrupt Marshal on duty, 14 drivers licence violation, 9 vehicle licence violation, 1 road obstruction, 1 failure to move over, 3 number plate violation, and 3 light sign violation. Others are; 7 Overloading, 8 Seat belt use violation, 2 tyre violation, 2 fire extinguisher violation, as well as 1 caution sign violation. These acts are not only violations of traffic laws but also direct threats to the safety of lives and properties of all road users.
Expectedly, the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed has described the prosecution as a bold and commendable stance against corruption. According to him, the exercise reiterates that the Corps remains resolute in enforcing traffic laws with fairness, professionalism, and transparency.
He stated among other things that “The era of impunity is over. Our roads must be safe, and we will pursue that goal relentlessly. We will not shield anyone from the consequences of their actions, no matter how highly placed. Our officers have been warned in clear terms, as such, there is no room for corruption or laxity in the discharge of duties.”
While warning the public against the implications of bribery on the nation’s image, the Corps Marshal called on the public to support the ongoing sanitisation in the Corps’ by always reporting any FRSC personnel found wanting in the habit of requesting, demanding, compelling or collecting bribes from motorists. He advised them to take advantage of the FRSC mobile App, the 122 toll free numbers or report to the closest FRSC formation for prompt action.
In addition to the foregoing, the Corps Marshal also used the opportunity to renew his call to motorists across the 36 States of the Federation and the FCT to obey traffic rules, avoid corrupt practices, and maintain proper documentation and vehicle safety standards. He further revealed the intent of the Corps to deepen collaboration with State Governments on improving road infrastructure, conduct more awareness campaigns, and remove obstructions that endanger motorists and pedestrians alike.
