FRSC Launches Joint Campaign With NDLEA, Others To Combat Drugged Driving

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has launched a joint campaign with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), and other stakeholders to combat drugged driving and promote clean environments in motor parks across the country

The campaign, which kicked off at the Jabi Central Motor Park in Abuja, aimed  to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence of illicit drugs and to promote a safe and clean environment in motor parks.

Corps Marshal Malam Shehu Mohammed emphasized the importance of this campaign, stating that it aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda for a safe and clean environment.

He also expressed concerned over the high level of illegal trade activities and the consumption of illicit drugs in motor parks and warned that FRSC would not hesitate to withdraw the licenses of motorists found consuming alcoholic drinks or illicit drugs.

Malam Shehu Muhammad further assured that FRSC will place greater emphasis on strict enforcement and the prosecution of traffic offenders to enhance effective traffic management in the country.

The Director-General of NDLEA, Retired Brigadier General Buba Marwa, appealed to motorists, especially commercial drivers, to desist from taking illicit drugs, which he described as hazardous to their health.

Represented by Assistant Commander General in charge of the FCT, Sani Tsakuwa the NDLEA Director -General reiterated that the agency remains committed to making the country free of illicit drugs

In her remark, the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, also lamented the loss of many lives, particularly young Nigerians, in road accidents caused by commercial drivers under the influence of illicit drugs.

Also speaking, the Director-General of NESREA, Dr. Innocent Barikor, emphasized the need for motor park managers to maintain cleanliness and stop littering the roads.

According to him, throwing refuse on the roads can damage vehicle tires and cause accidents.

Responding on behalf of the Jabi Central Motor Park, one of the leaders, Mr. Gabriel Okeh, thanked the FRSC, NDLEA, and other agencies, including non-governmental organizations, for bringing the campaign to the park and pledged the park’s readiness to support government efforts in sanitizing the area and making the roads safer.

The FRSC and other stakeholders have also inspected kiosks and shops operating within the motor park, advocating for the protection of lives and the elimination of illegal commercial activities, including the sale of illicit drugs.

Kayode Oyedare ,Edited by Shakirah Alabi