The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has called on hospitals across Nigeria to give urgent attention to road accident victims brought in for emergency treatment. The Sector Commander of the FRSC in Plateau State, Olajide Mogaji, made the appeal during the agency’s Customer Service Week celebration held at its headquarters in Jos on Wednesday.
Mogaji expressed concern over reports that some hospitals still refuse to treat accident victims, stressing that such practices violate existing laws. He reminded medical institutions that government policy mandates hospitals to treat emergency cases first before any other formalities. However, he commended hospitals in Plateau State for their cooperation in saving lives, noting that most facilities in the state promptly attend to crash victims.
He warned that hospitals found rejecting accident victims risk facing legal penalties. “We are pleading with hospitals to always prioritize emergency situations involving crash victims and not turn them away. Every life matters, and timely medical care can make the difference between life and death,” he said.
Mogaji also highlighted the risks FRSC personnel face during rescue operations, noting the need for officers to be armed for self-defense in certain dangerous situations. He urged the public to support the Corps’ efforts to enhance safety during rescue missions.
As the “ember” months approach, Mogaji said the FRSC is intensifying campaigns to reduce road crashes nationwide. He advised drivers to obey traffic rules, avoid overspeeding, overloading, and other dangerous driving habits that endanger lives.
Representing the Zonal Commanding Officer, Corps Commander Elizabeth Ameh delivered the goodwill message of the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, emphasizing collaboration between the FRSC, the public, and stakeholders in promoting safer roads. The event also honored media partners, including Jay 101.9 FM and Plateau Radio Television Corporation, for their roles in advancing road safety awareness in the state.
