By Matthew Denis
The Kwara State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in
Ilorin last Thursday said that about 200 victims of road traffic
crashes lost their lives in 2018.
The Sector Commander Mr. Jonathan Owoade said this during a media chat
which is part of the corps activities to mark the 2019 World Day of
Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.
Owoade, who said that the theme for the year is, “Life is not a car
part”, added that the United Nations(UN) recognised remembrance is to
empathise with road crashes victims as well as enlighten people to
prevent traffic injuries.
“The UN day of remembrance for accident victims is observed every
third week of November
“We are using this opportunity to enlighten the public through the
media, we want people to be aware that they should manage the life
that they have.
“That is why this year’s remembrance day theme is, ” life is not a car
part”, which means when a life is lost or any body part that is
damaged through crashes, cannot be replaced.
“As much as we empathise with those who are victims of such mishaps,
we want others to take caution; do not let your safety depend on other
road users”, he said.
Speaking on the statistics of road traffic crashes in the state,
Owoade said that in 2018, there were 266 crashes involving 2, 127
people.
He said that the total casualties were 1,138. While 938 were injured
he said 200 lost their lives.
The sector commander however appealed to road users to change their
attitude positively towards safety on the road.
He warned against excessive speed, adding that children below 12 years
of age are not allowed to occupy the front seat of a car.
“Car maintenance is important to road traffic crash prevention. Avoid
fatigue and obey traffic rules.
“Children should be put on the left side of the road when you are
walking with them.
“Weย do not want more crashes and crash victims on our roads”, he said.
