By Patricia Osegbue
The Federal Roxad Safety Corps (FRSC) has called on motorists to take personal responsibility for their safety and that of other road users, urging them to “drive to stay alive” during the yuletide season.
The call was made on Sunday, December 14, when the Anambra State Sector Commander, Bridget Asekhauno, led a sensitisation team to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Inland Town, Onitsha.
Addressing the congregation during the Eucharistic Mass, the sector commander cautioned against reckless driving and emphasized patience and discipline on the road.
According to her, impatience, unnecessary haste and competition among motorists are major causes of road crashes.
“When you enter the road, all you need is patience. Stop dragging with other motorists and avoid always being in a hurry,” she said, noting that patience could save the lives of loved ones, neighbours and other road users.
Commander Asekhauno also reminded drivers to respect pedestrian crossings and advised vehicle owners to ensure that vehicles intended for family travel are properly serviced and in good condition before embarking on journeys.
She further warned against the use of mobile phones while driving, stressing that “driving with one hand and holding a phone with the other is wrong.” She encouraged children and passengers to remind drivers not to answer calls while on the wheel.
Issuing a strong appeal, she said the FRSC does not want any loss of life during the ember months, adding that road fatalities pose serious challenges to government and society. “It is only the living that celebrate Christmas,” she remarked, urging motorists to use the roads responsibly to protect the future of children and youths who could become doctors, lawyers, priests and other professionals.
The sector commander was accompanied by the Onitsha Unit Commander, Godwin Odo, the Unit Head of Operations, Chief Route Commander U.C. Nwokeocha, and other officers of the corps.
Responding, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Samuel Uzondu, expressed appreciation to the FRSC team for choosing the parish as one of their outreach points to deliver the timely road safety message. He described the sensitisation as vital to the wellbeing of the community.
Patricia is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
