“FRSC Reveals Why Road Accidents Have Decreased in Abia”

Babatunji Wusu –

• Abia State has seen a steady decrease in Road Traffic Crashes from 2015 to 2023.
• Human factors are responsible for 85% of road accidents, while mechanical issues account for 15%.
• Major human factors include alcohol/drug use, poor driving skills, and distractions.
• The importance of public education on road safety was highlighted during the town hall meeting.
• Officials urged adherence to road safety rules, regular vehicle inspections, and warned against drug abuse.

The Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) in Abia State, Corps Commander Ngozi Ezeoma, announced a significant decline in Road Traffic Crashes (RTCs) from 2015 to 2023. This reduction is attributed to collaborative efforts by the FRSC and stakeholders aimed at promoting road safety and reducing reckless behavior among road users.

Speaking at a town hall meeting organized by the Abia State Orientation Agency and the FRSC in Umuahia, Ezeoma emphasized the importance of public education for all road users. She revealed that human factors account for 85% of road accidents, while mechanical and environmental factors contribute the remaining 15%. Key human factors identified include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, illiteracy, poor driving skills, overconfidence, speeding, distractions, fatigue, indiscriminate parking, and dangerous overtaking. Poor vehicle maintenance was noted as a significant mechanical cause of accidents.

Urena Abazie, the acting Director General of the Abia State Orientation Agency, urged residents to follow road safety regulations and avoid behaviors that could compromise safety. Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, the Commissioner for Transport, encouraged vehicle owners to conduct regular inspections at the Abia VIO computerized testing centers located in Aba and Umuahia.

Additionally, Anu Binta Maurice, the Deputy State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Abia State, warned transporters and road users about the dangers of drug abuse.