By Patricia Osegbue
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Bridge Head Command, Onitsha, has identified human error, mechanical faults and environmental conditions as the three leading causes of road crashes in Nigeria, urging motorists to adopt responsible driving habits to save lives.
The Route Commander of the Bridge Head Command, Barr. Chukwunonso Amaifeobu, made this known during a road safety enlightenment programme held at St. Mary’s Catholic Parish, Inland Town, Onitsha, on August 2.
Speaking during the awareness campaign, Barr. Amaifeobu explained that the human factor remains the most significant cause of road crashes, citing reckless driving, excessive speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and disregard for traffic regulations as major contributors to road accidents.
He noted that the mechanical factor relates to the roadworthiness of vehicles, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance, routine inspections and prompt repairs to prevent avoidable mechanical failures on the road.
The route commander added that environmental factors, including poor road conditions, adverse weather and other external conditions, contribute to road crashes, urging motorists to drive with caution and adjust their speed to prevailing road and weather conditions.
Other FRSC officers and Special Marshals who accompanied the Route Commander, including the Axis Leader overseeing 11 units in Onitsha, Mr. Ugwu John S. M., educated the congregation on the proper use of pedestrian crossings and safe road crossing practices.
In his remarks, the Parish Priest of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Rev. Fr. Samuel Uzondu, commended the FRSC for taking road safety education directly to the community, appealing to the agency to facilitate the installation of a zebra crossing in front of the church and nearby schools to improve the safety of schoolchildren and other pedestrians.
He observed that the area has recorded frequent road accidents, expressing confidence that a clearly marked pedestrian crossing would significantly reduce the risks faced by pupils and other road users.
Responding to the request, Barr. Amaifeobu assured the parish priest that the command would give the appeal prompt attention and work towards addressing it as soon as practicable.
Earlier during the Eucharistic celebration, the visiting priest from St. Charles Lwanga Catholic Church, Okpoko, Rev. Fr. Livinus Nnaemelu, urged christians to embrace God’s unconditional love and remain steadfast in their faith.
In his homily, he reminded the faithful that salvation is a gift of God’s grace and not a reward for human effort.
“Our spiritual hunger cannot be satisfied by worldly pleasures, achievements, possessions or human approval. It is only God’s word, the Eucharist and His abiding presence that can truly nourish our souls,” he said.
Patricia Osegbue is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
