During the weekend, Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, the Vice Chancellor of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), expressed that insecurity on Nigerian roads is responsible for more casualties than the poor condition of vehicles and roadways.
Professor Okolie emphasized that the recent increase in incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, and banditry has resulted in more casualties among Nigerians than the already dire condition of our roadways.
During a visit from the marshals of the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, Ozalla Unit Command, Enugu State, the ESUT Management was introduced to their new Unit Commander, Ozioma Okeke.
Professor Okolie expressed concerns about the significant hardships faced by citizens in the country, citing soaring inflation and living costs as factors contributing to widespread poverty and depression.
The individual expressed appreciation for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) for their unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety of Nigerians on the roads.
They urged the marshals to prioritize their own safety while pursuing Nigerian road users who may be experiencing distress due to the prevalent hardship in the country. Additionally, they emphasized that ESUT is committed to collaborating with the FRSC, Ozalla Unit Command, on matters of critical significance.
During the address to the ESUT Management, the newly appointed Unit Commander, Okeke, along with other officers including the Senior Route Commander, Friday Inyang, and the Protocol Officer, U O Chibuko, praised the positive relationship between the FRSC and the University.
She also encouraged the enrollment of ESUT Staff into the 'Special Marshal' scheme of the agency, which is a voluntary service aimed at enhancing road safety. Additionally, she emphasized the necessity of appointing a Safety Manager within the University. This position would be responsible for maintaining and deploying rescue materials to areas of need, as well as ensuring regular inspections of the university vehicles.
Vanguard's report indicates that The Commander emphasized the importance of providing ongoing training for drivers at the University, as well as conducting workshops and capacity-building programs for the staff.