FRSC Calls for Jail Terms After Fatal Road Crashes

The Federal Road Safety Corps Marshal, Dauda Biu, has proposed jail terms for drivers responsible for fatal road accidents, following recent tragic incidents in Oyo, Kano, and Kaduna.

Biu made this recommendation after fatal crashes occurred at Gaya Junction in Kano and Tashan Yari in Kaduna, resulting in 18 deaths on April 18 and 19, 2024. Additionally, a crash on the Oyo-Ogbomoso route claimed 19 lives on April 14, 2024.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Biu revealed that the FRSC has urged all state governments to prosecute these erring drivers rigorously.

He emphasized the necessity for strict penalties, including non-bailable jail terms, to curb reckless driving.

“We have communicated with all state governors to support the prosecution of drivers causing road crashes. Kaduna State has already shown commitment to this cause. We anticipate other states will similarly direct their justice departments or police to take action against violators,” Biu stated.

He added, “We advocate for non-bailable jail terms to serve as a strong deterrent. Once we see 50 drivers jailed, it will make everyone more cautious. Road safety is a collective responsibility.”

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Biu further revealed that the FRSC is intensifying its collaboration with the judiciary across all 36 states to expedite the trial of drivers involved in road accidents.

He stated, “We are enhancing collaboration with the judiciary nationwide for the swift prosecution of drivers causing road traffic accidents. Offenders will face legal consequences to deter others from driving recklessly.”

Highlighting progress in road safety, Biu noted a significant reduction in fatalities during the 2024 Easter and Eid-el-Fitr compared to the previous year.

“During the 2024 Easter Special Patrol, fatalities reduced by 59.3%, with 33 deaths in 2024 compared to 81 in 2023. Similarly, during the Eid-El-Fitr special patrol, fatalities dropped by 52.5%, from 59 deaths in 2023 to 28 in 2024,” Biu concluded.