The Federal Road Safety Corps has intensified enforcement against driving against traffic – commonly known as “one-way” – in the Federal Capital Territory, deploying targeted patrols, mobile courts, and grassroots education campaigns to curb the dangerous trend.
The Corps Public Education Officer, Osondu Ohaeri, disclosed the multi-pronged strategy in an interview on Sunday, identifying attitudinal issues as a major driver of route violations, particularly during peak traffic periods.
Targeted Hotspots and Swift Prosecution
“We conduct targeted patrols at identified hotspots, including the Lugbe-Airport Road axis towards Nyanya and other routes within the FCT,” Mr Ohaeri said. “We also carry out special intervention patrols based on intelligence to address specific violations.”
The FRSC is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Justice to operate mobile courts, ensuring swift prosecution of offenders. Sanctions include fines, licence penalties, and potentially imprisonment for severe or repeat violations.
Education and Grassroots Engagement
Recognising that “one-way violations are fundamentally attitudinal”, the corps has intensified public education campaigns through media engagement and community outreach. “Some motorists are not even aware of the implications of their actions,” Mr Ohaeri noted.
The FRSC conducts grassroots advocacy initiatives, including motor park engagements and meetings with local leaders. “When you take these engagements down to the grassroots, you deepen understanding and strengthen compliance,” he said.
Gradual Improvement
Mr Ohaeri acknowledged that compliance is gradually improving in several corridors, but cautioned that sustained efforts remain necessary for lasting change. “Road safety is a shared responsibility,” he urged. “This change must start with every road user. Safety is a collective responsibility.”
