Awka, Nigeria — The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has intensified efforts to curb road traffic crashes in Anambra State by sensitising motorists and pedestrians while conducting free drunk-driving tests at motor parks in Awka.
The exercise, held at Regina Caeli Junction, forms part of the corps’ broader strategy to promote safe road use and achieve a 10 per cent reduction in traffic accidents.
The Sector Commander in Anambra, Mrs Bridget Asekhauno, said the initiative aligns with the agency’s corporate social responsibility and strategic safety goals.
“Our mission is to fulfil part of our strategic goal of reducing road traffic accidents by 10 per cent. We are also here to ensure that road users operate safely, especially as pedestrians often struggle to cross the road at this junction,” she said.
Asekhauno noted that FRSC personnel also intervened in traffic management, assisting pedestrians to cross the busy highway safely and preventing avoidable accidents.
She identified ignorance of traffic rules, particularly the use of zebra crossings, as a major factor contributing to road mishaps.
“A lot of people do not understand the importance of zebra crossings. We are educating drivers to stop and give pedestrians the right of way. However, even when drivers slow down, some pedestrians cross the road sluggishly,” she added.
The sector commander revealed that the corps had formally notified the Anambra State Government about the need for a pedestrian bridge at the junction to provide a lasting solution to frequent accidents.
“We have sent a memo to the governor and we are hopeful that necessary action will be taken,” she said.
On the enforcement side, Asekhauno explained that the drunk-driving tests are conducted regularly across selected motor parks to ensure drivers are fit to operate vehicles.
“Every month, we carry out these tests in selected parks to ensure drivers are physically, psychologically and emotionally fit before going on the road. This is done both in the morning and evening. Drinking and driving do not mix,” she emphasised.
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A pedestrian, Mrs Jubilete Ikeonwu, commended the FRSC for the initiative, noting that the intervention would help reduce frequent crashes at the junction, especially during peak hours.
She also called for stricter enforcement of traffic rules, lamenting that many motorists—particularly drivers of heavy-duty vehicles—often ignore speed breakers in the area.
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