FRSC Deploys Four Breathalysers to Curb Drunk Driving During Eid-el-Kabir Celebrations
FRSC Deploys Four Breathalysers to Curb Drunk Driving During Eid-el-Kabir Celebrations
As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance road safety during the upcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced the deployment of four state-of-the-art breathalysers across key regions in Nigeria. This initiative aims to curb the incidence of drunk driving and ensure safer travel for all road users during the festive period.
Eid-el-Kabir, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the most significant Islamic holidays, marked by large gatherings, family visits, and increased travel across the country. This festive season, the FRSC is taking proactive measures to address the heightened risk of road accidents associated with the celebrations. The deployment of breathalysers is a critical component of the FRSC’s broader strategy to promote responsible driving and reduce road traffic crashes.
The FRSC has identified strategic locations where the breathalysers will be utilized, including major highways and urban centers with a high volume of vehicular movement. These devices will be used by FRSC personnel to conduct random checks on drivers, ensuring compliance with the legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit. Drivers found to exceed the BAC limit will face immediate penalties in accordance with Nigerian road safety laws.
Dr. Boboye Oyeyemi, the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, emphasized the importance of these measures: “Our primary objective is to safeguard the lives of all road users during this festive period. Drunk driving remains a significant threat to road safety, and the deployment of breathalysers is a crucial step in mitigating this risk. We urge all drivers to adhere to traffic regulations and avoid alcohol consumption before driving.”
In addition to the deployment of breathalysers, the FRSC has launched an extensive public awareness campaign to educate drivers about the dangers of drunk driving. This campaign includes roadside banners, radio jingles, and social media messages aimed at reinforcing the importance of sober driving. The FRSC is also collaborating with religious leaders, community organizations, and transport unions to spread this critical message.
“We believe that education and enforcement go hand in hand,” said Dr. Oyeyemi. “By raising awareness about the risks associated with drunk driving and ensuring strict enforcement of traffic laws, we can significantly reduce the incidence of road accidents and fatalities.”
The FRSC’s efforts are supported by various stakeholders, including the Nigeria Police Force, the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), and non-governmental organizations focused on road safety. This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive and coordinated response to the challenges posed by increased travel during Eid-el-Kabir.
Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to support the FRSC’s initiatives: “The safety and security of Nigerians during Eid-el-Kabir are of utmost importance. We are working closely with the FRSC to ensure that road users comply with traffic regulations and that those who violate the law are held accountable.”
As part of the Eid-el-Kabir safety campaign, the FRSC is also encouraging drivers to plan their journeys in advance, avoid excessive speeding, and ensure that their vehicles are in good condition. Motorists are advised to take regular breaks during long journeys to prevent fatigue and maintain high levels of concentration.
Dr. Oyeyemi concluded with a call to action: “This festive season, let us all commit to making our roads safer. Every road user has a role to play in achieving this goal. By driving responsibly and supporting the FRSC’s efforts, we can celebrate Eid-el-Kabir without the tragedy of road accidents.”