RIDERS’ SAFETY AWARENESS PROG: INFORMATION COMMISSIONER MEFOR STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF CAUTION
By Uche Kalu :
Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor has praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s outstanding achievements across all sectors in Anambra State, acknowledging his exceptional performance and urging Ndi Anambra to recognize his efforts. Dr. Mefor highlighted the governor’s commitment to security, particularly during the Yuletide season, ensuring the safety of lives and properties.
Dr. Mefor emphasized the importance of safety during a stakeholders meeting on Rider’s Safety, organized by the Ministry of Transport in Awka. He commended the Transport Commissioner for setting a positive example in line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision for a solution-driven government.
He stressed that safety should be the top priority, urging tricycle (Keke) and Okada riders to adopt defensive driving practices, exercise patience with other road users, and properly maintain their vehicles to avoid accidents.
Commissioner for Transport, Mrs. Patricia Igwebuike while welcoming stakeholders to the meeting, highlighted the ministry’s efforts to leverage technology in overcoming challenges faced by drivers, particularly tricycle and Okada riders, who play a vital role in reaching remote areas. Emphasizing safety, Mrs. Igwebuike urged these riders to prioritize their well-being and that of their passengers.
Mrs. Igwebuike shared insights from her visit to Orumbanasa in Anambra West LGA, where Keke and Okada are the primary modes of transportation, underscoring the significance of these riders in the transportation ecosystem. “By supporting their development and providing resources, the ministry aims to enhance the overall transportation experience,”she noted
Special Adviser to Governor Soludo on Security, Mr. JohnChris Chigbo who announced that the state government has initiated measures to bolster security in the transport sector, stressed the crucial role of Rider’s Permits, encouraging all riders to obtain one as a vital security safeguard. “Possessing this permit, riders not only ensure their own safety but also contribute to the overall security of the transportation system,” Chigbo stated.
The Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Anambra State Command, Joyce Alexander represented by Mr. Mogbo Oderah, emphasized the importance of utilizing side view mirrors to prevent avoidable road crashes. He attributed the causes of accidents to environmental and human. However, he stressed that human factors are the most prevalent causes of road accidents.
Ambassador Fidelis Nnadi, a renowned consultant on motor-related trade and services, expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of accidents involving keke and okada. He reiterated the crucial importance of safety and security, urging drivers to utilize their side mirrors effectively to prevent accidents and ensure their well-being.
Mr. Chris Okeke, Head of Operations Department, underlined the importance of the Rider’s Permit, a security document issued by the Ministry of Transport through the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) or Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO). This permit contains vital information about the owner, protecting them from security harassment.
To ensure safety, Okeke outlined key regulations for tricycle operations which included; two side view mirrors, front and rear headlamps, trafficators and brakelights, warning that no tricycle should install and use roof racks, extra lights, inappropriate horn, cross bars or any other artificial constructions and installations while in operation.
“Every driver must attain 18 years of age to be issued Rider’s Permit and the permit will no longer be issued to individuals beyond 70 years of age. Delivery riders are not meant to carry passengers except their box and must wear crash helmet, dress properly with their reflective jacket, company insignia as well as code.”
One of the participants, Mr. Emmanuel John Miracle expressed gratitude to the organizers and suggested that future gatherings include other security agencies to educate them on effective interactions with riders.
The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the banking sector, ARS, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), insurance companies, and other relevant organizations.