Imo Records 62 Road Crashes, 43 Deaths in 10 Months - FRSC

FRSC Reports 62 Road Accidents, 43 Fatalities in Imo Within 10 Months

“This 'ember months' campaign will. among other things, emphasise the importance of road safety for the...”

Imo's road safety stats revealed: 62 accidents, 43 deaths (Jan-Oct 2024). FRSC's 'Ember Months' campaign targets reckless driving.

In Imo State, Nigeria, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) reported 62 road traffic accidents from January to October 2024, resulting in 43 fatalities. Anthony Uga, the sector commander of FRSC in Imo State, shared these statistics at the kickoff of the 2024 “Ember Months” campaign in Owerri.

The campaign's theme, “Speak Up Against Dangerous Driving: Crashes Kill More Passengers Than Drivers,” highlights the importance of safe driving practices. Uga noted that overspeeding was the primary cause of these accidents, and the Owerri-Aba critical corridor was identified as the most vulnerable route.

The accidents also left 234 people injured, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and caution on the roads. Globally, road traffic injuries are a leading cause of death, with approximately 1.19 million fatalities annually. The World Health Organization (WHO) attributes 92% of these deaths to low- and middle-income countries, despite having only 60% of the world's vehicles.

Key Statistics:

62 road traffic accidents in Imo State from January to October 2024

43 fatalities and 234 injuries reported

Overspeeding identified as the primary cause

Owerri-Aba critical corridor most vulnerable route

Global Road Safety Concerns:

1.19 million annual road traffic fatalities worldwide 

92% of fatalities occur in low- and middle-income countries 

Road traffic injuries leading cause of death globally 

The holiday season is approaching, and with it comes the urgency to make extra income, leading some drivers to take risks on the road. Unfortunately, this behavior, combined with reckless road usage, accounts for a staggering 70% of road hazards. According to experts, this alarming trend is precisely what a new campaign aims to address.

The campaign seeks to raise public awareness about the far-reaching consequences of road traffic accidents, including economic, health, mental, and emotional costs. By highlighting these impacts, the initiative hopes to encourage responsible driving practices and adherence to traffic regulations. This includes emphasizing the importance of proper loading practices and compliance with weight limits to prevent accidents.

Key Objectives of the Campaign:

°Raise Awareness: Educate the public about the risks and consequences of road traffic accidents

° Promote Responsible Driving: Encourage drivers to follow traffic rules and regulations

° Foster a Culture of Safety: Emphasize the importance of safe road practices and responsible loading

° Reduce Road Hazards: Decrease the number of accidents and fatalities on the road

By achieving these objectives, the campaign aims to create a safer and more responsible driving culture, ultimately reducing the menace on Nigerian roads 

“This 'ember months' campaign will. among other things, emphasise the importance of road safety for the prevention of crashes occasioned by speeding.” Uga said.

“We, therefore, call on passengers, in line with the year's theme, to consider themselves more at risk and not hesitate to call erring drivers to order.”

He thanked Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo “for his unwavering support of the FRSC in the execution of its mandate, which has resulted improved safety on the roads.”