The alarming rate of road accidents in Nigeria raises concerns about the poor condition of our roads. It is unfortunate that these roads are shared with large vehicles, resulting in frequent struggles and delays for regular commuters. Numerous lives have been tragically lost as a direct consequence of this issue.
There has been a growing outcry from Nigerians, urging the authorities to address the presence of these oversized vehicles on the roads. However, it appears that the government has been silent on the matter, likely due to the ownership of some of these vehicles by influential individuals within society.
Prince Segun Ochuko Obayendo, FinsTA, the President of the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration, has expressed deep sorrow over a recent tragic incident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway that claimed the life of a truck driver.
In the early hours of Saturday, a devastating collision occurred when a truck driver lost control and crashed into a tanker from behind, resulting in the driver’s untimely death.
In response, Obayendo, in a statement issued by Chinwe Uwaegbute, the National Publicity Secretary, strongly emphasized the necessity for truck drivers to exclusively operate during nighttime.
“We must reassess the policy allowing truck drivers to operate exclusively on our roads at midnight. President Prince Segun Ochuko Obayendo, FinsTA, calls upon the relevant agencies responsible for ensuring highway safety to take decisive action to prevent such incidents from recurring. He also advocates for the mandatory assessment of drivers’ fitness before granting them permission to drive. Furthermore, he urges the government to prioritize investments in railway infrastructure to facilitate the transportation of highly flammable goods.”
Additionally, the Truck Owners Association of Nigeria is urged to prioritize the vigilance and physical fitness of its members before allowing them to operate on the roads.
Furthermore, the government is urged to make deliberate investments in nationwide railway infrastructure to support the transportation of highly flammable goods.
“During this difficult time, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased truck driver. CIOTA remains steadfast in advocating for the safety and well-being of all stakeholders in the transport sector.”
It is our sincere hope that all these considerations are taken seriously. Although our leaders may not personally experience the hardships faced by ordinary citizens on the roads, they must not forget that ensuring the safety of the people should be their foremost priority.
