The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has revealed that reckless driving was the primary cause of 112 road traffic crashes in Anambra State in 2024, resulting in the tragic loss of 112 lives. The alarming statistics were disclosed by the Anambra State Sector Commander, Joyce Alexander, during a press briefing on Friday in Awka.
According to Alexander, the 112 fatalities were recorded between January and December 2024, marking a significant concern for road safety in the state. She emphasized that the majority of these crashes were preventable, attributing them to reckless behaviors such as speeding, wrongful overtaking, and failure to adhere to traffic regulations. “Road crashes don’t just happen; they are caused by human errors that can be avoided with greater caution and responsibility,” Alexander stated.
The FRSC’s data for 2024 indicates a mixed outcome in road safety efforts. While the number of crashes in Anambra decreased compared to previous years, the high death toll underscores the need for intensified measures to curb dangerous driving practices. The corps reported that the crashes involved a range of vehicles, including commercial buses, trucks, and private cars, with many incidents linked to overloading and fatigue among drivers.
In response to the rising fatalities, the FRSC has called for stronger collaboration with stakeholders, including the state government, law enforcement agencies, and transport unions, to enhance road safety. Alexander urged motorists to prioritize safety by adhering to speed limits, avoiding distractions, and ensuring their vehicles are in good condition. “We cannot overemphasize the importance of obeying traffic rules. It’s a shared responsibility to make our roads safer,” she added.
The corps also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve road safety, including increased patrols, public awareness campaigns, and stricter enforcement of traffic laws. In 2024, the FRSC conducted several sensitization programs across Anambra, engaging drivers and passengers through town hall meetings and media outreach to promote safer road behaviors.
Alexander expressed condolences to the families of the victims and reiterated the FRSC’s commitment to reducing road crashes in 2025. She appealed to all road users to report reckless driving and to take an active role in ensuring safety on highways. “Passengers have the power to speak up when they notice dangerous driving. This can save lives,” she noted.
The FRSC’s report comes amid broader national concerns about road safety, with the corps recording 5,421 fatalities nationwide in 2024, a 7% increase from the previous year. As Nigeria grapples with the devastating impact of road crashes, the FRSC continues to advocate for a collective approach to address the menace, emphasizing that road safety is a shared responsibility.
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