By Praise Chinecherem
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Anambra State said it will deploy 1000 personnel across the state ahead of Christmas and New year celebrations.
Sector Commander, Adeoye Irelewuyi who stated this during a media chat in Awka, said the personnel involving regular and special marshals were targeted for robust strategies aimed at reducing road traffic crashes during the yuletide season.
He said, “Begining from 15th, December 2023 to January 15 2024, there will be a nationwide Operation Zero Tolerance to road traffic crashes
“The tasks of the personnel encompass traffic management, enforcement, and public enlightenment, all aimed at reducing road traffic crashes.”
Irelewuyi acknowledged the commitment of journalists and stakeholders, highlighting the substantial reduction in road traffic crashes compared to 2022.
He revealed that in 2023, the Anambra State Command recorded ninety seven road traffic crashes, involving eight hundred and twenty persons, marking a significant improvement from the 2022 records.
He also outlined that despite security threats and challenges, From January to November 2023, the command has arrested 1,953 offenders with 2,119 offenses, reflecting an improvement from the previous year.
According to him, the Command is in close collaboration with critical stakeholders, including sister security agencies, federal and state ministries, and the media as discussions are ongoing with representatives of MTN and the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing on potential traffic management measures, such as opening the Onitsha bound lane of the expressway.
To enhance response capabilities, Mr. Irelewuyi disclosed that the State Command has received a new 70-ton Tow truck from the national headquarters while emergency repairs of critical portions of the expressway at Onitsha, Owerri road and Bridge Head road and the establishment of three help areas along the Onitsha-Awka-Enugu Corridor are also part of their strategic measures.
Mr. Irelewuyi expressed gratitude to all stakeholders and urged everyone to prioritize safety during the upcoming celebrations, adding that the Operation Zero Tolerance, is a collective effort to ensure safe travels.
