Why Highway Code is must-have document for road users — Oyo SM Coordinator

The State Coordinator, Special Marshal RS11.3 Oyo Sector Command, Pastor Adegbotoluwa John, has described the Highway Code as a must-have document for road users.

The State Coordinator made this remark recently during a Motorcade Rally organised for road users in Oyo State. The event was held to sensitise the public on the importance of safe road use as the year 2025 begins.

While expressing New Year wishes to all Nigerians and encouraging safe driving on the nation’s roads, he urged all Nigerians, especially road users, to acquire a copy of the Highway Code to familiarise themselves with the rules and regulations governing the use of Nigerian roads across the country.

According to him, if every Nigerian, starting from the teenage years, took the time to acquire detailed knowledge of traffic rules and regulations by studying the Highway Code diligently, many road crashes that frequently occur could be averted.

He described the Highway Code as a sacred document that every individual must possess, read, and adhere to as a guide for safe road usage.

Pastor Adegbotoluwa also highlighted that some Nigerians deliberately disregard the right-hand driving rule and prefer to drive against traffic, leading to unnecessary accidents. He observed that many road users fail to imbibe a culture of safety on the highways.

According to him, a significant number of road users are unaware of the importance of complying with traffic rules and regulations.

He further noted that many motorists are ignorant of basic vehicle safety checks, such as inspecting worn-out tyres, inadequate brakes, and other defects that may be noticeable in their vehicles.

Speaking further, he explained that the Nigerian Highway Code classifies roads into categories such as private drive pathways, two-lane highways, dual carriageways, and expressways.

On this note, he stressed that it has become imperative for all road users, including pedestrians, to have a copy of the Nigerian Highway Code and acquaint themselves with its information to understand their rights and responsibilities on the road.

While discouraging reckless behaviour on the roads, Pastor Adegbotoluwa warned that driving under the influence of alcohol is disastrous, adding that insanity must be rid off our roads in Nigeria.

He also noted that, although speed could be thrilling, it endangers lives. He urged drivers to avoid overloading and appealed to hawkers and those who spread their wares on the roads to refrain from creating a nuisance and allow for the free movement of vehicles.

He stressed that roads are constructed for transportation, not hawking. Passengers were encouraged to speak up and caution their drivers against overspeeding.

The rally campaign highlighted key messages for road users to avoid reckless driving, overloading, overspeeding, dangerous overtaking, and using phones while driving.

Additionally, road users were advised not to drink while driving and to always wear their seat belts. Pastor Adegbotoluwa remarked, “It is expected of drivers to drive for safety, stay alive, and obey all traffic rules.”

The State Coordinator, Special Marshal Oyo Sector Command, Pastor Adegbotoluwa, along with his team, visited major parks in the state. They were accompanied by the Sector Head of Special Marshals in Oyo State, CRC Ijibola T. Fagbule (PCS), and her Staff Officer, DRC O.E. Faleemu, to educate the masses on the safe use of Nigerian roads.

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