By Bukola Olamona

As part of efforts to ensure safer roads in Ondo State, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), R112 Sector Command, has launched its 2024 Ember Month Campaign.

The initiative, with the theme: “Speak Against Dangerous Driving: Crashes Kill More Passengers Than Drivers,” aims to educate transportation stakeholders on road safety measures, focusing on practices that can prevent accidents.

Speaking at the event, Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed, represented by the State Corps Commander, Samuel Ibitoye, described the campaign as timely, aligning with global efforts to improve road transport safety.

“This meeting provides a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to discuss the role of smart infrastructure in reducing traffic crashes and addressing ongoing highway safety challenges,” he said.

Ibitoye highlighted the importance of safer road practices and the role of smart infrastructure in alleviating stress on Nigeria’s road transport systems, which contribute to rising accident rates.

He said:”Smart road infrastructure fosters seamless interaction between vehicles, roads, and commuters, enhancing safety on highways,” he explained.

Key components of smart infrastructure include speed sensors, acoustic sensors, IP CCTV cameras, smart traffic lights, e-tolling systems, weather monitoring, and digital signage.

These technologies, he noted, are part of the FRSC’s digital transformation efforts, in line with the President’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ for economic growth.

The campaign also ties into the broader Ember Month initiative, encouraging commuters to know their rights and report reckless driving via the FRSC Mobile App.

Ibitoye reiterated the FRSC’s commitment to reducing road accidents, by enforcing traffic laws, clearing obstructions, conducting rescues, and collaborating with stakeholders.

He also expressed concerns over the poor treatment of security officers by some road users, urging respect for officers working to keep roads safer.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Transport, Mr. Olugbenga Omole, who was represented by Mr Ajayi, cautioned against the misconception that Ember months are inherently more dangerous than others.

He attributed the rise in accidents to increased travel during the season and urged road users to avoid indecision, reckless overtaking, and drunk driving, emphasising the importance of adhering to road safety guidelines.

Stakeholders at the event commended the campaign and described it as a significant step towards improving road safety.

Mr. Enikanselu Megbowon, State Secretary of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), urged road users to exercise caution and called on the government to ensure the quality of imported vehicle parts to prevent accidents caused by substandard components.

Pastor (Mrs.) Bose Olalusi, Coordinator of the Female Drivers Association of Nigeria (FEDAN), called for further education for drivers and appealed to the government to support those financing their vehicles.

She noted that financial pressures often lead to overspeeding as drivers rush to meet payment obligations.