From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Kogi state government has expressed concern over the incessant traffic-related crashes that have claimed the lives of many in recent times.
Following this development, the Kogi State Government has concluded plans to establish a Special Task Force Unit to tackle the problem with immediate effect.
The proposed Special Task Force comprising of key stakeholders will monitor, coordinate, and regulate the flow of traffic across the three Senatorial Districts of the state.
In a communiqué issued at the end of stakeholders’ meeting chaired by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ododo on Road Safety Matters, Dr. Suberu Yusuf-John and made available to journalists in Lokoja on Monday, expressed deep concern over the rising loss of lives caused by reckless and careless driving, describing the trend as unacceptable.
According to the communique, the proposed Task Force Unit will play a critical role in reducing road accidents and ensuring safer highways for millions of road users.
It will also address traffic congestion, particularly during festive periods, through effective traffic management, strategic personnel deployment, and strict enforcement of regulations.
The task force, with the support of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety and Injury Prevention, and the Kogi State Government, forms part of Governor Ahmed Ododo’s strategic efforts to save lives,” the communiqué stated.
It emphasized that road safety is a collective responsibility requiring the commitment and cooperation of all stakeholders.
The meeting identified key causes of road crashes, including; Indiscipline among road users,
Careless and reckless driving, Inadequate road signage, Substance abuse by drivers, Overloading of vehicles, Poor road conditions, Use of untrained drivers.
To tackle these challenges, stakeholders recommended intensified public awareness campaigns via radio, television, and other media platforms. They also called for road rehabilitation, installation of proper signage, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and enhanced vehicle inspection processes.
Additional measures proposed include drug testing for drivers, promotion of responsible driving culture, and restrictions on the daytime movement of heavy-duty trucks, especially during peak festive periods to ease congestion.
The meeting was attended by representatives from key agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Vehicle Inspection Officers, Kogi State Internal Revenue Service, NSCDC, Nigeria Correctional Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Red Cross Society, Dangote Transport Group, Driver and Vehicle Testing Service, NURTW, TOAN, RTEAN, Vulcanized Union, Nigeria Automobile Technician Association (NATA), Health Institutions such as Fisayo Hospital, Obajana, and the Traders Union, International Market Lokoja.
