Sultan urges stronger action against traffic offences
By Animasahun Salman
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to intensify enforcement against traffic offences such as drunk driving, overloading, mixed loading and reckless driving, describing them as major causes of road crashes, deaths and injuries across the country.
The Sultan made the call on Thursday while receiving the newly appointed Zonal Commanding Officer of FRSC Zone RS10, Assistant Corps Marshal (ACM) Shoba B. Akande, who paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in Sokoto.
Speaking during the visit, the monarch said road safety remained a collective responsibility and pledged the continued support of the Sultanate Council to the Corps in its efforts to safeguard lives and property.
“We will continue to support the Federal Road Safety Corps in carrying out its mandate. The Corps should intensify action against offences such as drunk driving, mixed loading, overloading and reckless driving, which continue to claim lives on our roads,” the Sultan said.
He commended the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, for what he described as remarkable achievements in the enforcement of regulations against mixed loading, noting that the initiative had attracted widespread public commendation.
The Sultan also expressed concern over reports of attacks on FRSC personnel by some motorists during enforcement operations.
“It is unfortunate that some drivers attack and even knock down FRSC officers while they are performing their lawful duties. Such actions are inhumane and criminal. The Corps should remain committed to its duty despite these challenges,” he said.
The monarch further assured the new Zonal Commander that the palace would remain open for consultations and collaboration whenever necessary.
Earlier, ACM Akande said the visit was aimed at formally introducing himself to the Sultan following his appointment as the 24th Zonal Commanding Officer overseeing Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states.
He described the Sultan as a highly respected traditional ruler and father figure whose influence extends beyond Nigeria, and sought his prayers, guidance and support in the discharge of his responsibilities.
“I have come to pay homage to Your Eminence and formally introduce myself as the 24th Zonal Commanding Officer of RS10. We seek your prayers, guidance and support as we work to improve road safety across Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states,” Akande said.
The FRSC chief also conveyed the goodwill and best wishes of Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed to the Sultan and the people of the Sokoto Caliphate.
As part of the visit, Akande presented a commemorative award to the Sultan in recognition of his support for road safety initiatives and collaboration with the Corps.
The Zonal Commander was accompanied by the Sector Commander of Sokoto Sector Command, Corps Commander Umar Adamu Argungu, the Zonal Head of Operations, Corps Commander A.Y. Rafi, zonal and state coordinators of Special Marshals, and other senior officers from the zonal headquarters and Sokoto Sector Command.
