Yuletide: Police step up traffic enforcement in Ekiti

The Ekiti State Police Command has expressed concern over the increasing number of road traffic accidents, resulting in fatalities and injuries across the state, particularly in Ado Ekiti, the state capital.

The Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, said the police would step up traffic patrols, visibility policing and enforcement of relevant traffic laws in collaboration with appropriate traffic management agencies as the Yuletide season approached, as part of efforts to curb accidents and reckless driving in the state.

Falade, who spoke in a statement issued in Ado Ekiti by the Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, on Monday, urged all road users “to prioritise safety over speed and convenience. No journey is worth the loss of a life. Every road user has a responsibility to protect themselves and others.”

The CP, noting that the Yuletide season was always characterised by increased vehicular movement and commercial activities, advised all road users to “obey traffic rules and signals/lights, avoid speeding, reckless overtaking, dangerous manoeuvres, and driving under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances.

Drivers and motorcycle riders must possess valid licences, ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, avoid overloading and distractions, and use appropriate safety equipment, including seat belts and approved crash helmets. All road users are urged to exercise patience, remain alert, respect pedestrians, and prioritise safety at all times”.

He attributed the increasing number of reported road traffic mishaps to “reckless and ineligible driving, excessive speeding, impatience, disobedience to traffic rules and regulations, disregard for traffic lights, and other dangerous road practices that endanger the lives of motorists, passengers, pedestrians and other road users”.

The state police command called on motorists, motorcycle riders, tricycle operators and other road users to exercise greater caution, patience and responsibility while using the roads.

Falade said, “The Command will intensify traffic patrols, visibility policing, and enforcement of relevant traffic laws in collaboration with appropriate traffic management agencies. Any person found violating applicable traffic regulations will be made to face the full weight of the law.

“The Command also urges members of the public to promptly report road traffic violations, emergencies, and other activities that threaten public safety to the nearest police station or via 08062335577.

“The Ekiti State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and ensuring safer roads for all residents and visitors throughout the festive season and beyond,” Falade stated.