The Akwa Ibom Sector Commander of Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), CC Matthew Olonisaye has disclosed that 11 persons have been killed and 56 injured in the state between January and August 2023.
He made the disclosure during the 2023 Special Marshal Sectoral Workshop in Uyo on Friday and the theme is: “Volunteerism in Road Safety Management”.
Olonisaye noted that the 67 casualties recorded this year against 166 casualties recorded within the same period last year, shows the continuous reduction of road crashes in the state.
The Sector Commander commended the Special Marshals in the state for their support in the reduction of road traffic crashes
“It is key to inform you that from January 2023 to date there was a notable reduction of crashes, fatalities, and injuries recorded in the state as compared to what was penned down in the same period of 2022.
“It will not be out of place not to recognise the efforts of the Special Marshals in Akwa Ibom State that have supported the achievement of reduction of road crashes in the state.
“I unassumingly request all attendees to, in a timely fashion, contribute and offer suggestions on possibilities to improve on this upcoming standard of crash reduction in Akwa Ibom and indeed Nigeria to the benefit of all road users including us,” he added.
Also speaking, the Assistant Corps Marshal Zonal Commanding Officer Zone RS6 Port Harcourt, ACM Jonathan Owoade urged the security agencies particularly, the police not to harrass the Special Marshals but accord them due respect while on duty.
In his welcome address, the State Coordinator, Special Marshals of FRSC, Dr. Daniel Ekong noted the voluntary arm was saddled with equal powers and responsibility to discharge all FRSC operational activities toward achieving the Corps’ vision of eradicating road traffic crashes and create a safer motoring environment in the country.
He commended the Corps Marshal and Chief Executive including his management team for their efforts towards making the road safe for road users.
Ekong noted that the introduction of the speed limit device and the electronic ticket has made FRSC assume a world-class position in traffic administration and safety management.
On his part, the State Commissioner of Transport, Mr. Oman Esin lauded FRSC for their efforts in reducing road crashes in the state, adding that the state will continue to sustain its partnership with the organisation for the safety of all road users.
He further urged all road users to observe all rules and regulations guiding road use, particularly in the upcoming yuletide season to avoid loss of lives, adding that the state will soon become a model to other states in traffic management and transportation systems.