Johnkennedy Uzoma, Author at Tribune Online

The former Deputy Governor of Imo State, Prince Eze Madumere, has called on motorists across the country to strictly adhere to traffic rules and regulations to reduce road accidents and fatalities during the festive season. Prince Madumere emphasised that with Nigeria’s sprawling cities and rapidly growing population, the country faces significant challenges in managing road traffic effectively. He made this statement while addressing journalists in Owerri on Monday. He pointed out that Nigeria’s road network is among the most extensive in Africa, making it crucial to establish and enforce traffic rules and regulations to ensure the safety of citizens. Madumere stated that understanding and following these regulations is essential for all road users. He noted that compliance would not only enhance safety but also help reduce the high rate of road accidents, particularly during festive periods. The former deputy governor urged drivers and motorists to maintain acceptable speed limits, describing it as one of the key traffic rules that vehicle owners must strictly observe. He explained that speed limits vary depending on the type of road and location. “In urban areas, the speed limit is generally set at 50 km/h, while highways may have speed limits of up to 100 km/h. School zones and residential areas often have reduced speed limits of 30 km/h to ensure the safety of children and pedestrians,” he said. Madumere further stressed that drivers must obey traffic signs and signals, emphasising that adherence to these rules is mandatory to regulate traffic flow and ensure public safety, especially during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. He said, "Traffic lights, particularly in major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, are essential for managing the flow of vehicles at intersections and other critical points." Prince Madumere advised motorists to always wear seat belts as a safety and precautionary measure, stressing that the use of seat belts is mandatory for both drivers and passengers. According to him, this is one of the key road regulations that all vehicle users must strictly adhere to. "This rule applies to both the front and rear seats of vehicles. Failure to wear a seat belt can result in fines and penalties, as the law is strictly enforced by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)." Madumere also cautioned drivers to refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other harmful substances. He emphasised the dangers of using mobile phones while driving, noting that such distractions are a significant cause of road accidents in the country. He urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy through regular maintenance and servicing, stating that this practice builds confidence while driving. "Roadworthiness includes checking the condition of a vehicle's brakes, tires, lights, and other essential parts," he said. He added, "Vehicles that fail to meet the required standards are not permitted on the road until necessary repairs are made." Madumere encouraged drivers to regularly update their vehicle papers to reduce congestion and delays on highways while avoiding conflicts with authorities. He further urged road users to comply with instructions from law enforcement officers, including the FRSC and other relevant agencies. He said, "When adherence is in place, journeys become smoother, and drivers navigate seamlessly." While wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in advance, Prince Madumere emphasised that the festive season represents love and sacrifice. He called on the wealthy to use the occasion to reach out to widows, orphans, the vulnerable, and less privileged members of society. ALSO READ THIS TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE Kemi Badenoch’s comments about Nigeria, ‘Cock and bull story,’ lies — Presidency