The Oyo State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has warned motorists against distracted driving and other forms of reckless driving during and after the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

The FRSC Oyo Sector Commander, Corps Commander Rosemary Alo, gave the advice during a rally/road show at motor parks in Ibadan metropolis on Wednesday.

The roadshow was part of the command’s operational strategies toward creating a safe motoring environment in the state for citizens to enjoy a safe and hitch-free 2026 Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

The FRSC boss warned drivers to shun excessive speed, driving under the influence of drugs, picking up calls while driving, and other attitudes that could distract their attention.

She noted that the command had deployed other means of reaching out to private vehicle drivers.

She warned that the command would back up its public enlightenment programmes with enforcement for effectiveness.

“Apart from coming to the park, we also have other avenues or other forums such as churches, mosques, markets, and other public gatherings where we meet with motorists, particularly private vehicle drivers,” she said.

Ms Alo disclosed that the command had concluded arrangements to start a free safety check on Monday.

She noted that the FRSC free safety check initiative aimed to assist the public in knowing the status and functionality of vital equipment parts of their vehicles.

“The exercise will commence with vehicles in institutions such as universities, hospitals, and public schools before extending it to other sectors free of charge. We will check the vehicles free of charge at these designated places to see the things that the vehicle owner or driver needs to put in place to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

“We are going to check components such as tyres, wipers, the brake system, the lighting system, and other vital components of the vehicle. This will also enable them to take note of those things that they need to replace or repair in their vehicle.

“Some people don’t even know when a tyre expires. They don’t know they need to change a tyre. Some people don’t know when the tyre gauge is low or a bit deflated, and they need to do all these for their safety and that of other road users,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the drivers, a member of the Oyo State Park Management System (PMS), Taofeek Ayoade, said that the safety message was timely, admitting that many drivers always engage in unnecessary speeding during festivities to make more money.

He noted that many drivers had formed the habit of calling people they wanted to deliver parcels to at their next destination while they were still driving, which had caused avoidable road crashes leading to loss of lives and property.

Among the parks visited were Eleyele motor park, Ido-Eruwa motor park, and other strategic locations within Ibadan metropolis.
(NAN)