FRSC Warns Drivers Against Distractions, Vows Tougher Enforcement in Benue

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From Our Correspondent In Makurdi 

As Experts Link Road Crashes to Human Errors, Indiscipline, and Drug Use

The Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Benue State, Mr. Steve Ayodele, has cautioned both private and commercial drivers to avoid distractions while driving, noting that negligence behind the wheel remains one of the leading causes of road crashes.

Ayodele gave the warning during a town hall meeting organized by the Corps on Friday in Makurdi, with the theme: “Take Responsibility for Your Safety: Stop Distracted Driving.”

He explained that distraction-related crashes have become a growing concern, hence the Corps’ sustained sensitization campaigns aimed at reducing road accidents across the state.

According to him, the FRSC would intensify enforcement of traffic regulations after the ongoing “Ember Months” sensitisation exercise to ensure compliance and sanction offenders accordingly.

Speaking as guest speaker at the event, Deputy Corps Marshal (Rtd), Mr. Edward Zamber, emphasized that most road crashes stem from human errors, adding that all road users share responsibility for safety.

Zamber identified the use of mobile phones while driving as one of the leading causes of recent crashes, followed by eating or engaging passengers in conversations while behind the wheel.

He advised drivers to remain fully focused, reminding them that the lives of passengers were in their hands. Zamber also called on the FRSC to sustain collaboration with stakeholders in the transport sector to strengthen collective efforts toward reducing accidents.

In his remarks, the State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. Tajudeen Olayinka, attributed many road accidents to indiscipline among drivers. 

He stressed that no disciplined driver would take drugs before driving or neglect vehicle maintenance.

Also speaking, Dr. Micah Hussaini of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Makurdi, urged the public to take advantage of the hospital’s free and swift ambulance services in emergencies, including accidents and gunshot injuries.

He provided the following emergency contact lines: 09114114999 and 09114114222.

Similarly, the General Manager of Benue Links Nigeria Limited, Mr. Alexander Fanafa, assured that the company routinely inspects its vehicles daily to confirm their roadworthiness before departure. 

He added that their drivers are well-trained and disciplined—a proactive measure aimed at preventing both distracted and mechanically induced crashes.