By Our Correspondent
The Federal Road Safety Corps, (FRSC), Kano State Sector Command has said that over 1500 personnel, including Regular and Special Marshals have been deployed to ensure free traffic flow, rapid response to emergency and effective traffic regulations during this year’s ember months public sensitisation campaign in Kano.
Kano Sector Commander CC Umar Masa’udu Matazu made this known at 2024 Ember Months Sensitization Press briefing held in FRSC’s Kano Command Headquarters.
Read Also: FRSC Commissions Accident and Emergency Clinic in Kano, Named After Corps Marshal Mohammed
He similarly said the deployed personnel are supported by a fleet of 30 patrol vehicles, 5 ambulances, and a heavy-duty tow truck, strategically placed along key highways.
Represented by Deputy Commander In Charge of Operations DC Hussaini Suleiman, Mr. Matazu said the deployment was in line with FRSC’s 2024 Corporate Strategic Goal 1 which is to reduce road traffic deaths and injuries by 5 percent and our unwavering commitment to road safety.
He said the press conference marks the official commencement of the 2024 Ember Months campaign.
“Here, we are briefing the media, stakeholders, and the general public on the FRSC’s preparedness and the need for everyone to join in this campaign to curb dangerous driving. We call on passengers, pedestrians, and the entire public to actively participate by reporting reckless drivers, using our toll-free lines, and supporting safety initiatives throughout the season.”
The Commander further said, “As we all know, the last quarter of the year, the Ember months, is typically associated with a marked increase in traffic volume, road crashes, and fatalities.”
Read Also: NBA Kano Calls for Probe into Human Rights Abuses Against #EndBadGovernance Protesters
“This year, our campaign is themed “Speak up against dangerous driving: Crashes kill more passengers than drivers.” The theme speaks directly to the urgent need for passengers and all road users to take responsibility for their safety by raising their voices against dangerous driving behaviors. Every road user has a role to play in reducing crashes, especially passengers who often bear the brunt of road crashes.” He stated.
The Commander further stated ” The Campaign Activities is designed to address the high incidence of road crashes during the Ember months, the FRSC Kano State Command has put together a series of activities aimed at raising awareness, promoting safe driving habits, and fostering collaboration among all road users. The highlights of our campaign are as follows:
Day 1: Press Conference –. Day 2: Motorcade/Roadshow – 6th November 2024. On 6th November, we conducted a Motorcade/Roadshow along Zaria Road and Maiduguri Road in Kano, starting from 10:00 AM.
” This motorcade is designed to spread the road safety message directly to road users, especially commercial drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. It will also serve as a reminder of the importance of adhering to traffic regulations, using seat belts, and maintaining moderate speeds.”
Read Also: Kano FRSC Staff Felicitate with Boss on Promotion to Asst. Corps Marshal
He further explained “during this activity, our personnel will distribute educational materials and interact with road users to emphasize the theme of the campaign.”
According to the Commander, “Day 3: Town Hall Meeting – 7th November 2024. The town hall meeting, scheduled for 7th November at Mumbayya House, Bayero University Kano Center for Democratic Studies, Gwammaja, will bring together transport unions, stakeholders, community leaders, and road users to discuss issues affecting road safety during the Ember months. This platform will allow us to receive feedback, discuss challenges, and collectively develop strategies to reduce road traffic crashes.”
The Kano Sector Commander further stressed that FRSC in Kano is committed to maintaining constant patrols, enforcing speed limits, and ensuring that drivers comply with road safety laws, such as the use of seat belts and non-use of mobile phones while driving.
He emphasized the need for passengers to understand that the campaign is for them speak up when they notice dangerous driving practices, noting that if a driver is overspeeding, overtaking recklessly, or driving under the influence, it is the passengers’ responsibility to speak out.
“Silence can lead to tragedy, and every voice counts in the fight to reduce road crashes, callin on Drivers, to remain vigilant and responsible.”
He warned that the pressures of the Ember months should not compel drivers to engage in reckless driving, as no journey is worth a life lost.
He also called on transport companies and fleet operators to ensure that their vehicles are in good condition before embarking on journeys.
“As we move forward into the Ember months, I urge every road user in Kano State to join hands with us.
“Let us make road safety a collective responsibility, and together, we can reduce road traffic crashes and make this Ember period accident-free.” The Commander further urged.
