FCTA, FRSC crack down on traffic light, route violations

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has teamed up with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other agencies to crack down on traffic violations across Abuja. This joint enforcement operation, led by FCTA Transportation Secretariat Mandate Secretary Chinedum Elechi, began on Thursday during a press conference. Elechi stated that a task force would conduct patrols, arrest offenders, and ensure they face the full weight of the law for their dangerous driving practices.

The decision to launch this operation was prompted by the increasing disregard for traffic rules, particularly after the FCT road network expansion under the urban renewal program overseen by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Elechi expressed delight at the collaboration between the FCTA, FRSC Sector Command, and other agencies, emphasizing that this was the first such joint effort.

He highlighted that while the expansion of roads improved mobility, it also created new traffic management challenges as some drivers took advantage of improved infrastructure to disregard traffic rules.

Major targets of the enforcement exercise include ignoring traffic lights and other control devices, route violations, unauthorised use of restricted routes, including driving against traffic, illegal parking in restricted areas, and under bridges or on pedestrian crossings. Elechi warned motorists and commercial transport operators to obey traffic rules, use designated routes, and park only in approved areas.

The enforcement is expected to be sustained, with offenders facing appropriate sanctions under national and FCT traffic regulations. In addition to punishments, medical and psychological evaluations will be mandatory for those convicted of certain offenses, in line with the National Road Traffic Regulations 2012 and the FCT Road Traffic Regulations.

These evaluations aim to address dangerous driving behaviours and promote responsible road use, not to intimidate or harass, according to Iliyasu, the FCT Sector Commander of FRSC.

FRSC assured the public that the joint enforcement effort would continue across Abuja, focusing on strategic locations to reduce traffic violations, improve vehicle movement, and safeguard lives and property. The officials emphasized that obeying traffic regulations, respecting other road users, and making safety a personal responsibility are crucial to improving road safety and traffic management in the capital city.