BY OLUWA RAISE-ME-UP
The Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ekiti State, Mr. Sanya Adeoye, has appealed to transport stakeholders in the state to strictly adhere to traffic rules and regulations, especially as the nation enters the Ember Months — the last four months of the year, when road traffic incidents often increase.
Adeoye made the appeal on Thursday during an Ember Months Town Hall Meeting held in Ado-Ekiti with the theme: “Take Responsibility for Your Safety, Stop Distracted Driving.”
He described the annual Ember Months Sensitisation Campaign as a long-standing tradition aimed at strengthening public awareness and ensuring safe motoring across the state.
According to him, this year’s campaign focuses on engaging stakeholders in their shared responsibility to reduce road crashes and fatalities during the festive season.
“Records show that the end of the year typically comes with increased vehicular movement, which often results in more road crashes. We must collectively work to minimise these preventable incidents,” Adeoye noted.
The Sector Commander disclosed that the command has mobilised adequate operational resources, including the deployment of over 750 regular and special marshals, to enhance patrols and traffic control throughout the state.
He added that 15 patrol vehicles, two ambulances, and a towing truck have been deployed across the three senatorial districts to ensure prompt response during emergencies and prevent avoidable gridlock.
Adeoye also stated that the Corps has provided essential equipment, including extricating machines and alcohol breathalysers, to rescue trapped accident victims and detect drunk drivers.
He highlighted significant improvements recorded between 2024 and 2025 in the state’s road safety statistics. According to him:
There was a 38% reduction in road traffic crashes, dropping from 84 cases in 2024 to 52 in 2025.
Fatalities also reduced by over 60%, aligning with the FRSC’s 2025 strategic safety targets.
Cases of serious injuries declined by 37%.
Meanwhile, minor injuries increased due to improved rescue response and reduced severity of crashes.
The number of persons killed in road traffic crashes dropped from 25 in 2024 to 7 in 2025.
Adeoye urged transport union leaders, commercial drivers, truck operators, security agencies and other road users to drive responsibly, avoid speeding, and show consideration to fellow motorists.
“We must all prioritise safety. Let us avoid reckless driving, overloading, and driving under the influence. Everyone has a role to play in making our roads safer,” he added.