By Praise Chinecherem
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Anambra State has disclosed that over 5000 unclaimed driver’s licenses are in its custody.
Sector Commander, Adeoye Irelewuyi who disclosed this to reporters in Awka, said the development was one of the major reasons that informed the ongoing “operation show your licence” in the state.
He also hinted that a total of 1057 personnel, including regular and special marshals have been deployed across the state for the Easter celebrations.
He said, “Our records show that there are over 5000 unclaimed driver’s licenses in the state that have been processed and completed. The owners prefer driving with expired temporary licenses.
“This is one of the major reasons for the “operation show your licence”. Apart from this, we observed that certain traffic violations that were booked show many unlicensed drivers in the state.
“The offences they are booked for are so obvious that if they are well trained they wouldn’t have been caught in such violations.
“We’re fully convinced that there’s need to weed out untrained drivers in the state so that the level of crashes recorded in the state will be drastically reduced, especially during rainy season that requires skills and special attention.
He added, “Though we’re yet to conclude on the reason for the huge number of unclaimed licenses, but generally, Nigerians have the propensity for “last minute rush” to comply to directive.
“Besides, looking at similar incidents that have taken place in recent times, especially the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) collection, you’ll discover the same tendency of people waiting till they’re forced to do it.”
The FRSC boss however expressed optimism that the ongoing enforcement would go a long way to reducing the unclaimed licenses as well as increase applications for drivers license during the period.
“Though we’re doing a weekly check, but we’re expecting a sharp reduction in number of unclaimed licenses as well as increase in application for drivers license during the period.
“We’ve identified critical areas within the state where the 1057 officers will man for free flow of traffic, prompt removal of obstruction and response, hoping to have a crash free celebration.”
