Nigerians have strongly rejected a proposed bill that seeks to arm personnel of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC). The bill, which passed its second reading in the House of Representatives on October 10, 2024, has sparked widespread criticism, with many expressing concerns that it could lead to abuse of power and endanger the lives of drivers, passengers, and other road users.
Jointly sponsored by lawmakers Abiodun Adesida and Olaide Lateef, the bill aims to amend the **FRSC Act of 2007** to allow for the creation of a special armed squad within the agency. This follows earlier calls by former FRSC Corps Marshal, Dauda Biu, who cited increasing security threats as a reason to equip FRSC officers with firearms.
An online poll conducted by **Sunday PUNCH** across social media platforms revealed overwhelming opposition to the bill, with 92% of respondents on X (formerly Twitter) and a majority of users on Facebook and Instagram rejecting the idea.
Leaders of drivers’ associations and civil society groups voiced their concerns, warning that arming FRSC officers could lead to misuse of firearms and increase the risk of violence on the roads. The President of the **Joint Drivers Association of Nigeria**, Akintade Abiodun, emphasized that traffic control does not require the use of guns, and arming officers could lead to unnecessary confrontations and potential harm to road users.
Critics argue that the FRSC’s primary role is to ensure road safety, not to combat crime, and that introducing firearms could lead to abuses similar to those experienced in other security agencies. Some called for improved training and a focus on preventing bribery within the FRSC instead of arming its personnel.
However, a few voices, including **Steve Aluko**, Executive Director of the **Civil Liberty Organisation (Northern Region)**, supported the bill, as long as strict measures are put in place to prevent the misuse of firearms.
The debate over the bill highlights the broader concerns about security, accountability, and the role of law enforcement in Nigeria. Many Nigerians fear that arming more agencies without addressing underlying issues could exacerbate the country’s security challenges.
