The Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) is set to inaugurate a comprehensive programme titled “Operation Safety Drive” in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) aimed at curbing reckless driving and reducing road accidents.
Dr. Yusuf Suberu, Squadron Leader of the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) Mayors of the Federation, announced this in an interview with Pathway News on Sunday in Abuja. Suberu explained that the initiative will focus on enforcing traffic regulations, conducting vehicle inspections, and educating motorists on safe driving practices.
Studies have shown that drivers’ actions contribute to a staggering 94% of all Road Traffic Crashes (RTCs). According to Suberu, reckless driving is a major contributor to road accidents in the FCT, and the mayors are determined to tackle this menace head-on.
“This programme focuses specifically on drivers because their actions, whether it’s speeding or not paying attention to the driving task, are responsible for most crashes,” Suberu said. “As part of the safety drive, the VIO mayors will deploy teams of inspectors to major highways and intersections to monitor compliance with traffic laws. Motorists caught violating traffic regulations will face penalties, including fines, suspension of vehicle licenses, and mandatory safety seminars.”
Suberu added that the VIO mayors would partner with local communities and stakeholders to promote road safety awareness and encourage responsible driving habits. He emphasized that safety is a collective responsibility and urged motorists to join hands with the VIO mayors to make the roads safer.
The initiative is expected to run from August 1 to December 31, with the VIO monitoring its impact and adjusting strategies as needed. “By targeting reckless driving and drivers, we aim to significantly reduce road crashes and make the FCT a safer place for all road users,” Suberu stated.
Pathway News reports that the VIO mayors are volunteers assisting professional traffic managers in the 36 states and FCT to ease gridlock and traffic challenges through an expanded volunteerism approach.
