IBADAN – As part of measures to curb reckless and carefree driving during the ‘Ember’ months, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, the Executive Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, has hosted the Oyo State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) at the Council Secretariat, Idi-Ayunre.
This was as the FRSC Sector Commander, Oyo state Command, Rosemary Alo, disclosed at the one day town hall sensitization and awareness campaign with the theme: “Speak Up Against Reckless Driving” that enforcement of road traffic rules has been placed on red alert.
In his welcome address at the well attended town hall meeting last Thursday, Olatunji, who noted that the sensitization campaign was in line with the vision of Governor Seyi Makinde towards strict compliance with the rule of law, said his administration in Oluyole local has continued to engage all stakeholders towards ensuring safety of both motorists and other road users.
Olatunji stated that the meeting aimed at improved road safety awareness and collaboration between the local government and the FRSC was one that he expressed optimism at its positive impact on the people particularly at the grassroots.
The meeting which commemorated the official flag off of the 2024 road safety sensitization and awareness campaign, sought to address critical issues related to road safety, particularly within the Oluyole jurisdiction, as well as explore strategies to reduce road accidents and fatalities.
Speaking with newsmen shortly after the meeting, Olatunji emphasized the importance of road safety to the well-being of the local communities, noting that improving road conditions, enforcing traffic laws, and promoting safe driving habits were top priorities for Oluyole local government.
Olatunji expressed the readiness of his local government to deepen collaboration with the FRSC and other agencies to ensure that Oluyole’s roads are safer for all commuters.
“We cannot overemphasize the importance of road safety. Every life lost on our roads is a tragedy, and as leaders, it is our responsibility to do all we can to prevent such incidents.
“This town hall is a critical step in the right direction in ensuring we work together to promote awareness, improve road infrastructure, and advocate for responsible driving in on our roads.
“As you’re all aware, His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde is even leading the charge in this regard which was an agency was created; The Rule of Law Agency, to show a deeper level of commitment towards ensuring compliance with responsible driving.
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Earlier, Commander Alo FRSC commended Olatunji for his proactive stance on road safety and his efforts in community engagement. She noted that while the FRSC was working diligently to monitor and regulate traffic, the role of local government leaders in educating the public and enforcing safety protocols was equally vital.
Speaking further, she noted that reckless driving affects more passengers than drivers due to extensive travelings across the country during the ember months, and attributed it to the seasonal significance of the opportunity for family reunion, festivals, meetings, and ceremonies.
In her words: “As a result typically, our roads witness heavy congestions, road crashes, and regrettably, loss of lives and properties. The situation is worsened by the reckless behaviors of some motorists creating a distressing environment for travelers, government agencies, and stakeholders including the FRSC.
“In the light of this, the Corp has intensified efforts to ensure smooth traffic flow, reduce road crashes, and create a safer motoring environment nationwide. To achieve this, FRSC has commenced mega public enlightenment and sensitization campaign in all states including the FCT while enforcement has been placed on red alert.”
Also present at the town hall meeting were the Oluyole HLGA, Alhaja Kudirat Noibi, the local government vice chairman, Hon. Niyi Akorede, top officials of the FRSC, traditional, religious and community leaders, other stakeholders, and members of various transport unions including the Park Management System (PMS).