By Justus Adetomiwa, Ado-Ekiti
The Ekiti State Police Command has announced the commencement of a statewide operation, code-named “Operation Velvet,” to enforce traffic laws and curb reckless driving and other unsafe road practices across the state.
The command said the exercise, being carried out in compliance with a directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, was aimed at reducing avoidable road crashes, traffic congestion and the loss of lives and property resulting from disregard for traffic regulations.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu, the command urged all road users, including private and commercial motorists, tricycle operators and motorcycle riders, to comply strictly with traffic laws and regulations.
It advised motorists to obey traffic signs and signals, observe stipulated speed limits and avoid reckless and dangerous driving.
The police also urged vehicle owners and operators to ensure that their vehicle documents and operational permits remained valid and up to date.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Michael Falade, directed officers deployed for the exercise to carry out their duties professionally, firmly and courteously, while respecting the fundamental rights and dignity of members of the public.
Falade also warned police personnel against extortion, harassment, abuse of power and other forms of misconduct during the enforcement exercise.
He said any officer found engaging in such acts would face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the regulations of the Nigeria Police Force.
The command stressed that Operation Velvet was not designed to harass or inconvenience law-abiding citizens but to restore sanity on the roads, promote responsible road usage and protect lives and property.
It consequently called on members of the public to cooperate with the police and other relevant traffic management agencies during the exercise.
The command urged road users to see compliance with traffic regulations and road safety as a collective responsibility.