ASABA/Nigeria: The Acting Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, has called on the Special Marshals of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to reinforce their core mandate of regulating motorist speed and addressing various forms of road misconduct.
Onyeme made this appeal on Saturday during the commissioning of the newly built Secretariat for the Special Marshals at the Delta Sector Command in Asaba. He commended the Special Marshals for their dedication and hard work in assisting the FRSC in its critical mission to safeguard Nigerian drivers and their passengers from preventable accidents.
“I wish to remind both the Road Safety Corps and the Marshals of their fundamental responsibility to control speed and other forms of misbehavior among motorists on our highways,” Onyeme stated. He emphasized the importance of dissuading drivers from engaging in phone conversations while driving, warning that such distractions often lead to tragic accidents and unnecessary loss of life.
The acting governor acknowledged the valuable contribution of the Special Marshals in the ongoing battle against dangerous driving practices, including the use of alcohol and illicit substances. “Your sacrifices are appreciated by all well-meaning Nigerians,” he said, highlighting how the presence of road safety officials has cultivated a culture of caution among drivers and road users.
Despite the commendations, Onyeme recognized that issues such as drunk driving, overloading, and the failure to use seat belts continue to pose significant challenges. He urged the Special Marshals to adopt new strategies for identifying intoxicated drivers and to reinforce their vigilance on the roads. “This calls for renewed efforts to curb these excesses; do not relent in your mission,” he stressed.
In a related note, the acting governor encouraged FRSC officials to use verbal warnings for minor offenses, especially during periods of heavy traffic, to foster a more cooperative environment among drivers.
Earlier, Comrade Idolor Odafe, Coordinator of the Special Marshals RS5.2 for the Delta Sector Command, expressed that the commissioning of the new secretariat fulfills a collective vision aimed at enhancing road safety infrastructure and supporting the operations of the FRSC in Delta State. He emphasized that the secretariat stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Special Marshals, made possible through their resourcefulness and selfless contributions.
