The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ogun State, in collaboration with the Ogun State Ministry of Women Affairs, on Wednesday launched a road safety campaign aimed at reducing accidents during the “ember” months, a period commonly linked to a rise in road incidents.
This initiative specifically targets market women and young people, focusing on the importance of passenger vigilance and adherence to traffic rules.
The Ogun State FRSC Sector Commander, Corps Commander Akinwumi Fasakin, highlighted that passengers, especially market women, often bear the brunt of road crashes more than drivers.
Commander Fasakin explained that the campaign aims to correct misconceptions about the so-called dangers of the ember months, urging passengers to take proactive steps to ensure their safety.
“We want passengers to understand their responsibility to speak up if they see a driver acting recklessly,” he said.
Fasakin advised drivers to drive cautiously, reminding them to protect their passengers by following speed limits, avoiding overloading, abstaining from alcohol, using seat belts, and steering clear of distractions like mobile phones.
He also urged motorcycle riders, popularly known as okada riders, to exercise caution and avoid risky behaviors.
In her remarks, the Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Adijat Adeleye, expressed the Ministry’s support for the FRSC’s efforts, stressing the need for passenger awareness in preventing accidents.
“We all know how drivers and okada riders behave during the ember months, as some aim to make more money than they earned all year, leading to risky behaviors,” she said.
Adeleye advised passengers to take immediate steps if they feel unsafe, encouraging them to ask drivers to slow down or, if necessary, exit the vehicle.
“If you’re on a bike that’s speeding excessively, don’t worry about the fare; stop the bike and get down. No amount of money is worth your life—when it’s gone, it’s gone,” she emphasized.
The Commissioner commended the FRSC’s ongoing dedication to road safety and pledged the government’s support to spread awareness, safeguarding the lives of all residents, particularly during this period.
