The Federal Road Safety Corps says it has arrested more than 250 commercial taxi drivers in Abuja for overloading within just two days of a new enforcement campaign.
The FCT Sector Commander, Corps Commander Felix Theman, made this known in a statement issued on Saturday by the Command’s Public Education Officer, Helen Ntaji.
The operation, which began on October 2, targets drivers who carry more than one passenger in the front seat of taxis, in violation of road safety regulations and vehicle design standards.
Theman described the crackdown as a major step to restore passenger safety and dignity in the Federal Capital Territory.
“One of my key priorities upon assumption of office was the restoration of passenger dignity and safety through strict adherence to road safety laws. Enforcement is the most civil and effective means to ensure that safety is not compromised for convenience. In the first two days of the operation, over 250 commercial vehicles and drivers were apprehended for violating the directive mandating only one passenger in the front seat of taxis,” he said.
The FRSC stressed that overloading not only makes seatbelt use impossible but also puts passengers at risk by straining vehicle tyres and suspension systems. It also reduces driver control, especially during emergencies.
“The overloading of passengers and goods not only endangers lives by making seatbelt use impossible. But also places undue stress on vehicle tyres and suspension systems. Additionally, it impairs the driver’s ability to control the vehicle effectively, especially in emergency situations,” Theman explained.
Before the operation was launched, the FRSC said it had engaged in several consultations with transport unions and stakeholders across Abuja, who pledged support for the enforcement and promised to sensitise their members.
The agency also disclosed that the arrests are being backed by mobile magistrate courts that enable on-the-spot prosecution of offenders. Full activation of mobile court locations across the FCT is expected to begin on Monday, October 6.
Theman further warned commercial drivers using unsafe vehicles to upgrade or face immediate impoundment.
“Passengers and commuters must support the FRSC’s efforts to uphold their rights to safe and dignified transportation. All commercial drivers operating vehicles that fall below minimum safety standards must upgrade their vehicles or risk immediate impoundment,” he warned.
The FRSC added that the ongoing enforcement is part of wider efforts to sanitise commercial transport in Abuja.
