Andy Esiet, Calabar
The RS6.2 Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corp (FRSC), Calabar, Cross River state, has flagged-off its 2022 Ember Months Campaign with a warning against over speeding, overloading and unsafe tyres. The campaign was flagged off by the state
Governor, Senator Ben Ayade and assisted by the FRSC Zonal Commanding Officer, RS 6 HQ, Mr. Jonathan Owoade and other heads of security agencies and critical stakeholders at Calabar Municipality with the theme, “Avoid Speeding Overloading and Unsafe Tyres to Arrive Alive”.
In his opening address, the Sector Commander, RS 6.2 Calabar Sector Command, Mr. Abdullahi Hassan in press release by the Sector Public Education Officer, Mr. Mark Ajuka and made available to some newsmen at weekend, enlisted the implications as well as the dangers associated with excessive speeding, worn out tyres and overloading violation among other offences and charged drivers to exercise more caution during this period.
Hassan said, “speed impedes drivers ability to control the vehicle as such use of speed limiter is very necessary”.and acknowledged the commitment of other security agencies for security intelligence gathering information especially on illegal plate numbers as he appreciated the media for their partnership in continuous publication of Road Safety related issues.
On his part, Owoade, brought a goodwill message from the Acting Corps Marshall, Mr. Dauda Biu and enlightened the gathering on the implications of travelling at high speed in overloaded vehicles for a long period of time which causes the tyres to overheat and wear rapidly which also increases the chances of road traffic crashes.
He charged the general public that FRSC Emergency Ambulance Services have been strengthened with the opening of zebras and Ambulances points positioned at strategic locations for prompt response to emergencies within minimal response time.
The Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Oqua Edet Oqua who represented the state governor, enumerated some of the observed anomalies by the commercial drivers to include; poor vehicle maintenance, faulty lighting system, malfunctioned wipers, excessive speeding and others and pledged continuous support and collaboration with the FRSC in ensuring safer roads and mobility.
The ceremony witnessed free medical screenings and blood pressure tests conducted by the Special Marshalls unit Calabar and a drama performance by NYSC/RSC members aimed at sensitising drivers.
