In response to a tragic accident along the Abuja-Kaduna highway that claimed 18 lives and left 27 others injured, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has initiated stringent measures to address the perilous practice of trailers transporting both humans and animals.
The Corps Marshal, Dauda Biu, has mandated sector commanders to establish a joint task force, comprising the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigerian Army, Vehicle Inspection Office, and state governments.
The fatal crash, which occurred at Audu Jhangon village early Sunday morning, involved a DAF trailer with registration number KUJ 430XC.
The overloaded trailer lost control, resulting in a tragic accident that has sparked concerns over the safety of vehicles carrying mixed cargo. The injured have been promptly taken to the nearest hospital for treatment.
In a statement released on Sunday, FRSC spokesperson Bisi Kazeem highlighted that the recent incident was not an isolated case, referencing a similar crash in Niger State that claimed 18 lives.
Preliminary investigations revealed a pattern—fatal crashes involving trailers loaded with both humans and animals, often occurring during night journeys.
Corps Marshal Biu expressed his dismay over the avoidable nature of these incidents and attributed them to the nonchalant attitude of drivers who neglect basic traffic rules.
He emphasized that these crashes could have been prevented with proper caution and adherence to regulations.
In response to these concerns, the FRSC has swiftly taken action. Biu has directed Sector Commanders to set up a joint task force with the mandate to apprehend and prosecute trailers and trucks carrying both humans and animals.
The collaborative effort involves the establishment of a mobile court for immediate prosecution of traffic offenders, signaling a robust crackdown on this dangerous practice.
The move aims to not only hold accountable those responsible for such hazardous transportation but also to deter others from engaging in similar practices that jeopardize the safety of road users.
As the joint task force swings into action, it remains to be seen how effective these measures will be in curbing the alarming trend of trailers loaded with both humans and animals on Nigerian highways.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
