By Moses Yusuf
The FRSC was established in 1988 to tackle Nigeria’s high road accident rates, regulate traffic, and handle driver licensing. However, over the years, the agency has deviated from its core mandate, with many Nigerians now viewing it as a roadside extortionists or extortion racket rather than a safety institution.
Reports of harassment, bribery, and aggressive enforcement have become widespread, eroding public trust and raising questions about its relevance.
The recent Keffi incident in Nasarawa State highlights how dangerous this shift has become. FRSC officers allegedly chased a Sienna vehicle that refused to stop, leading to a fatal crash that killed six people.
Eyewitnesses claim the officers’ pursuit caused the driver to lose control and somersault. This tragedy is not isolated; similar cases of reckless enforcement and extortion have been reported across the country, suggesting a systemic problem.
It’s further alleged that FRSC officials now focus on collecting money from drivers, including okada riders, with some even targeting “Yahoo boys” under the guise of vehicle checks.
There’s an existing order to let vehicles go if they refuse to stop to avoid accidents, but officers often don’t follow this, leading to tragic outcomes where many question if officers receive proper training and orientation.
Given these issues, some argue the FRSC has failed in its constitutional duties and should be scrapped. Others suggest reforming the agency, improving training, and enforcing accountability.
An investigation into the Keffi incident could help identify culpable officers and serve as a deterrent.
…Moses Yusuf is a Nigeria Journalist with Nasarawa Broadcasting Service (NBS).
