By Olamide Iwala

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ondo State Command, has charged passengers to be proactive partners in ensuring road safety measures that can avert crashes.

The sector commander, Samuel Ibitoye, stated this at the end of the 8th United Nations Global Road Safety Week.

The event, held at the Agape Christian Ministries in Akure, had the theme, “Streets for Life: Make Walking Safe, Make Cycling Safe.”

Ibitoye drew attention to the sobering reality that road traffic accidents claim over 1.2 million lives globally every year, with 50 million more injured.

Disturbingly, he stated that those most affected are young people between the ages of five and 29, the very heart of Africa’s productive population.

He stressed that passengers have a crucial role to play in reducing these tragedies.

“Passengers must not be mere bystanders. You must engage with the driver, discourage reckless behaviour and avoid distractions like reckless phone use or falling asleep at unsafe moments,” he urged.

He restated that safety measures such as fastening seat belts and respecting speed limits are not just rules, but vital personal safeguards.

“Wearing your seat belt protects you, not just for the sake of road safety officials, but for your very life,” Ibitoye said.

The sector commander warned passengers to reject complacency and actively contribute to safer journeys by being alert and participating in the overall safety effort.

Bishop Felix Adejumo, Founder of Agape Christian Ministries, called for the FRSC’s road safety education to reach all churches, advocating for monthly or annual sessions on road signs and safety protocols.

He also urged drivers within church environments to adhere strictly to a 20-km/h speed limit to protect worshippers.