The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued a stern warning to motorists to adhere to speed limits, especially as the festive season draws closer. The Corps emphasized that speeding remains a leading cause of road accidents, which have claimed thousands of lives in Nigeria over the years.
According to recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the FRSC, over 21,500 lives have been lost in road crashes in the past four years. In 2021, 6,205 fatalities were recorded, followed by 6,456 deaths in 2022, and 5,081 deaths in 2023. The alarming trend underscores the urgent need for stricter compliance with road safety measures.
FRSC spokesperson Olusegun Ogungbemide, speaking to *Saturday PUNCH*, stressed that controlling speed could significantly reduce the severity of accidents and save lives.
“Excessive speed is a major factor in fatal crashes. Even when other factors contribute to accidents, controlling speed greatly reduces the risk of fatalities. Motorists must always think about their loved ones and adhere to regulated speed limits,” Ogungbemide stated.
### *Speed Limit Guidelines and Safety Advice*
The FRSC reiterated the maximum speed limits for various vehicles:
– **Private vehicles:** 100 km/h on expressways and 90 km/h on highways.
– **Commercial vehicles:** 90 or 80 km/h, depending on road conditions.
Ogungbemide urged drivers to exercise discretion based on road conditions, noting, “Drivers should not maintain maximum speeds on poor roads and must use common sense when selecting appropriate speeds, even on well-maintained roads.”
Passengers were also advised to remain vigilant, ensuring that drivers operate responsibly. “Passengers must not tolerate reckless driving. It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure safety on our roads,” he added.
As the holiday season approaches, the FRSC called for cooperation from road users to prevent unnecessary accidents, urging them to prioritize safety for themselves and other commuters.
