By Christian Njoku
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Cross River State Command, on Tuesday stopped a commercial driver from travelling after he tested positive for alcohol during the Corps Sallah sensitisation campaign in Calabar.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), during the exercise, the Sector Commander, Corps Commander Innocent Etuk, said the driver failed a breathalyser test conducted at the motor park.
Etuk said the driver recorded a 0.481 milligrammes alcohol level, far above the approved safety limit for motorists adding that the driver was immediately withdrawn from duty to prevent a possible road crash during the festive travel period.
“We cannot allow such a driver to continue the journey because it is a crash waiting to happen,” he said.
The sector commander said the operation was part of FRSC’s nationwide campaign to educate motorists and passengers on safe road conduct during Sallah travels.
He noted that the campaign focused on public enlightenment, enforcement and passenger education to reduce road crashes during the celebration while warning drivers against speed, drunk and distracted driving.
He also cautioned passengers against pressuring drivers to overspeed, describing such behaviour as dangerous and capable of causing fatal crashes.
“Passengers are not always right when they encourage reckless driving, drivers must stay calm and safety-conscious.
“Travellers must prioritise safe arrival over speed because families want to celebrate when you arrive safely and not to mourn,” he noted.
On his part, Mr Samuel Essien, a driver with Akwa Ibom Transport Company (AKTC), commended FRSC noting that they had maintained a cordial relationship with the Corps
He described FRSC training as helpful in improving compliance with highway codes and safe driving culture.
Another driver, Mr Emmanuel John, advised motorists to ignore passengers demanding excessive speed during long-distance journeys.
According to him, “It is better to arrive late than not arrive at all.”
A passenger, Mr Ade Ogunleye, who was travelling from Calabar to Akure, described the sensitisation campaign as timely and necessary for safer interstate travel.
He urged drivers to avoid alcohol and ensure adequate rest before embarking on long journeys.
