By Queen Kunde
As Nigerians mark Valentine’s Day today, the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has issued a strong warning against excessive speed, drunk driving and reckless behaviour on the roads.
He said the Corps has put all operational and educational tools in place to keep road users safe during the celebration. He also ordered commanding officers nationwide to step up patrols and ensure strong visibility on highways and major roads.
According to him, officers and men have been massively deployed for effective traffic control and strict enforcement of traffic laws. Patrol teams have been directed to use breathalysers and radar guns to test suspected drunk drivers and check speeding vehicles.
“No one caught violating traffic laws will be spared,” the Corps Marshal warned.
He explained that Valentine’s Day is celebrated around the world as a day of love, gift-giving and kindness in memory of Saint Valentine. However, he stressed that showing love should also mean protecting lives by obeying traffic rules.
Motorists were advised to avoid alcohol before driving, resist the urge to overspeed and shun reckless driving to prevent crashes, injuries and loss of lives.
The FRSC boss also urged members of the public to make use of the Corps’ toll-free emergency number, 122, to report crashes, road obstructions or reckless driving for quick response.
He called on parents and guardians to closely monitor their children, noting that young people are often more vulnerable during festive periods.
The statement, signed by Olusegun Ogungbemide, Assistant Corps Marshal and Corps Public Education Officer at FRSC Headquarters, Abuja, appealed to all road users to cooperate with officers on duty.
“The presence of our personnel on the roads is for the safety of lives and property,” the statement added.
As lovers celebrate across the country today, the message from the FRSC is clear: celebrate with care and let love lead, not speed.