BY EMMANUEL CHUKWUMA, ENUGU
The former deputy governor of Imo State, Prince Eze Madumere, has challenged motorists in the country to adhere strictly to traffic rules and regulations, so as to reduce the level of road accidents and carnage during this festive period.
Prince Madumere highlighted that with its sprawling cities and rapidly growing population, Nigeria faces significant challenges in managing road traffic regulations.
The former deputy governor made this known while addressing newsmen in Owerri, the capital of Imo State.
He revealed that the nation's road network is one of the most extensive in Africa and this makes it imperative to establish and enforce road traffic rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the citizenry.
According to him, understanding these regulations are essential for all road users. "This is because it will not only promote safety but also assist in reducing the high rate of road accidents in the country especially during festivities."
Prince Madumere urged drivers and motorists to maintain acceptable speed limits, insisting that
this is one of the key road rules and regulations car owners and motorists must adhere to strictly.
Prince Madumere explained that speed limits vary depending on the type of road and the location. "In urban areas, the speed limit is generally set at 50 km/h, while highways may have speed limits of up to 100 km/h.
"School zones and residential areas often have reduced speed limits of 30 km/h to ensure the safety of children and pedestrians."
The Ex deputy governor stressed that drivers must obey traffic signs and signals, as adherence to these rules are mandatory, so as to regulate traffic flow and ensure safety of the populace, especially during Christmas and new year celebrations.
Prince Madumere said, "Traffic lights, particularly in major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, are essential for managing the flow of vehicles at intersections and other relevant places".
He admonished motorists to always apply seat belts for safety and precautionary measures. He said usage of seat belts are compulsory for both drivers and passengers . According to him, this is one of the key road rules and regulations car owners and motorists must know and obey compulsorily.
Prince Madumere elaborated that "This rule applies to the front and rear seats of vehicles. As failure to wear a seat belt can result in fines and penalties, as the law is strictly enforced by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)."
He cautioned drivers and motorists to desist from driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs and other harmful substance.
Prince Madumere also urged them to desist from the use of mobile phones while driving as this brings distractions.
He submitted that lack of concentration while driving is a leading cause of road accidents in the country.
He called on drivers and motorists to ensure at all times that their vehicles are roadworthy through adequate service as this gives confidence while driving.
His words, Roadworthiness includes checking the condition of the vehicle’s brakes, tires, lights, and other essential parts.
"Vehicles that fail to meet the required standards are not permitted on the road until necessary repairs are made."
He encouraged drivers to update their papers regularly as this will reduce congestion, delays on the highway and avoid friction with the relevant authorities.
"Drivers, commuters are advised to obey instructions from law enforcement officers, such as FRSC, and other relevant government agencies. When adherence is in place, the journey becomes smoother and drivers navigates seamlessly," he said.
While wishing Nigerians Merry Christmas and happy New year in advance, Prince Madumere emphasized that Christmas represents love, sacrifice and charged the wealthy to use this opportunity to reach out to the widows, orphans, the vulnerable and less privileged in the society..
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