The Ogun State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Akinwunmi Fashakin, has announced that the command will deploy about 100 personnel along the Sagamu–Ijebu-Ode–Benin Expressway to curb accidents and save lives during the ember months.

Speaking in Abeokuta at the weekend, Fashakin said the command would also work with private owners of heavy-duty tow trucks to swiftly remove broken-down or accident vehicles from the road. He noted that the deployment was part of wider efforts to address traffic challenges associated with increased travel during the period.

He cautioned motorists, particularly articulated truck drivers, against behaviours such as drunk driving, excessive speeding, overloading and the use of worn-out tyres, warning that such practices were major causes of fatal crashes.

According to him, the 100 officers will focus on managing traffic congestion along the construction-heavy sections of the corridor, with support from corridor commanders stationed between Sagamu and Benin-Ore.

“When it comes to crashes, FRSC does not recognise boundaries. The Sagamu–Ijebu-Ode–Benin Road is a critical corridor with ongoing roadworks, and we are bracing up for the challenges likely to arise from impatience and indiscipline by some drivers,” he said.

Fashakin explained that FRSC units in Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode, Ogbere and Ajebandele would adopt a coordinated approach to ease traffic flow and ensure motorists do not get stranded. “Our mission is that no one should sleep on the road during the ember months. We will continue to enlighten drivers on the dangers of reckless driving, alcohol consumption, overloading and poor vehicle maintenance,” he added.

He further disclosed that the FRSC would strengthen synergy with other security and emergency agencies to ensure smooth travel and quick responses to incidents along the route during the festive period.