By Christian Njoku
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on Thursday intensified festive patrols in Cross River State, testing drivers for alcohol and drugs at Odukpani Junction, a gateway into Calabar.
Corps Commander Innocent Etuk, Sector Commander, Cross River State Command, disclosed this during an exercise to inspect its electronic metro counting to track traffic volume, speed and vehicle categories during the festive season.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Corps also used the opportunity to distribute bottled water to motorists embarking on journeys out of Calabar.
According to him, drivers were subjected to breath tests to detect alcohol or drug influence, which could impair judgment and increase crash risks.
He warned that drivers found under the influence would be stopped, replaced by fleet operators where applicable, or sanctioned to prevent road crashes.
Speaking further, Etuk explained that the data gathered from the electronic metro counting would guide deployment, risk assessment and escalation decisions, considering traffic volume, vehicle categories and truck weights entering Calabar.
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“While we are using this opportunity to test the drivers for alcohol, drugs and also inspect our electronic metro counting machine, we are also distributing water to travellers.
“We also distribute flyers to motorists as part of our corporate social responsibility during the festive season,” he said.
He added that FRSC was committed to safer roads, urging motorists to take responsibility for safety and comply with traffic regulations during the festive period.
On his part, Mr Joseph Edem, a driver commended the effort of FRSC in making sure that the roads were safer for motorists and pedestrians.
Edem, who underwent a breath test and was cleared to continue on his trip, urged all Nigerians to comply with the rules and regulations of the FRSC to enhance safety on Nigerian roads.
Similarly, a passenger, Mr Thompson Nberedem, said the gesture from FRSC was impressive and laudable.
“The officers of the Corps distributed water to us and were very civil and friendly in their interaction with us, I believe every Nigerian should comply with the Corps mandate.
“Checking for alcohol and drugs in the system of our drivers is very important especially in this festive season when many drivers drive without the consciousness that they cannot be detected,” he stated.
