The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ondo State Command, has issued a strong warning to drivers of articulated vehicles against the dangerous practice of mixed loading—transporting both passengers and animals. The state FRSC Sector Commander, Dr. Samuel Ibitoye, emphasized this directive during a press briefing following his meeting with members of the Ondo State House of Assembly in Akure.
Crackdown on Mixed Loading in Ondo State
To enhance road safety and minimize fatalities caused by accidents involving articulated vehicles, the FRSC has announced immediate enforcement actions. Vehicles caught carrying both humans and animals will be impounded, and drivers will face strict sanctions.
Dr. Ibitoye highlighted that this measure is part of ongoing advocacy and enforcement campaigns aimed at ensuring compliance with road safety regulations.
“Enforcement is ongoing to address ‘mixed loading,’ which is the mixture of humans and goods/animals. We are not taking it for granted; we will arrest and impound vehicles caught in such an act.”
Collaboration with Stakeholders
The FRSC is working closely with stakeholders, including enforcement agencies and lawmakers, to ensure that drivers are adequately sensitized on road safety protocols. During his visit to the Ondo State House of Assembly, Dr. Ibitoye sought the support of the Speaker, Chief Olamide Oladiji, and other lawmakers to strengthen safety regulations in the state.
“We are here to seek their synergy and bring them to the fold because road safety is a shared responsibility. Everybody, old and young, the high and the low, must play their roles to ensure that our roads are safe.”
The Dangers of Mixed Loading
One of the major concerns raised by the FRSC is the increased fatality rate in accidents involving mixed loading. According to Dr. Ibitoye, many road crashes involving articulated vehicles reveal that more people were onboard than expected. This practice puts the lives of passengers at significant risk, especially in high-impact collisions.
Safety Guidelines for Road Users
The FRSC has urged road users to adopt safer driving habits to prevent accidents. Some key safety tips include:
- Avoid Speeding: High-speed driving is a leading cause of accidents.
- No Overloading: Vehicles should not carry more than their permitted capacity.
- Plan Journeys Properly: Drivers should schedule their trips to avoid rushing.
- Follow Traffic Laws: Adhering to road safety regulations can save lives.
With the new enforcement policy in place, the FRSC Ondo State Command is taking significant steps to ensure safer roads for all. Drivers and stakeholders must cooperate with the authorities to prevent unnecessary loss of lives. By following traffic regulations and avoiding dangerous practices like mixed loading, road users can contribute to a safer transportation system in Ondo State and Nigeria at large.
