Sector commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Benue, Kehinde Dahunsi, has disclosed that the 2025 year-end months (ember months) in the state witnessed a 47.6 per cent reduction in deaths due to crashes.

Mr Dahunsi made the disclosure during a news conference held on Friday in Makurdi.

He said that the statistics was generated through the corps Ember Month Road Safety Operations, code-named Operation Zero, which ran from December 15, 2025, to January 15.

Mr Dahunsi noted that the ember period was traditionally marked by heavy vehicular movement due to festive travels and heightened commercial activities.

He explained that the 2025/2026 operation was particularly challenging, as ongoing road construction and rehabilitation works across the state created diversions, traffic disruptions, and increased exposure of road users to hazards.

The sector commander said the command recorded significant operational successes through effective planning, sustained enforcement, efficient traffic management, prompt rescue services, and strong collaboration with stakeholders.

According to him, the total road traffic crashes during the period dropped from 41 in the previous ember season to 32, representing a 21.9 per cent reduction.

“Fatal crashes declined from 12 to eight, while serious crashes reduced slightly from 20 to 19 and minor crashes saw a sharper drop from nine to five.

“Also, 178 persons were involved in road traffic crashes during the operation, when compared to 196 in the corresponding period of the previous year.

“Of this number, 11 persons lost their lives, while 63 sustained injuries, compared to 88 previously and the number of persons rescued without injury remained constant at 87,” he said.

Mr Dahunsi attributed the improved safety outcomes to intensified patrols, high-visibility enforcement, and the deployment of mobile courts, which he said enhanced compliance and served as a strong deterrent against traffic violations.

He added that there was noticeable improvement in the use of seat belts, crash helmets, and speed-limiting devices by motorists.

According to him, during the exercise, 2,028 traffic offenders were apprehended for 2,128 offences, while 833 vehicles were impounded and 1,195 valid vehicle documents and national driver’s licences were confiscated.

He, however, expressed concern over persistent challenges such as speeding, night travel, and non-compliance with traffic rules, especially within construction zones.

Mr Dahunsi commended the corps marshal and the management of the FRSC for their strategic support and guidance, while also praising officers and men of the sector command for their dedication and professionalism during the operation. 

(NAN)