FRSC clears air on Abuja ‘harassment’ video

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has dismissed allegations of harassment and assault linked to a viral video from a traffic enforcement operation in Abuja, insisting its officers acted professionally.

The agency’s reaction follows widespread outrage on social media, where officials were accused of harassing road users, with claims that a man was struck with an iron rod during the incident.

In a statement issued on Saturday by Deputy Corps Commander and Corps Public Education Officer, Osondu Ohaeri, the Corps described the circulating narrative as misleading.

“The Federal Road Safety Corps wishes to address the trending video and public concerns regarding an incident involving its patrol team… Contrary to the misleading narrative being circulated, the incident arose during a routine traffic enforcement operation,” the statement said.

According to the FRSC, the incident occurred on Thursday, April 16, during an enforcement exercise by the RS7.14 Central Business District Unit Command in Abuja.

The Corps explained that its officers intercepted a vehicle over traffic violations, including overloading and failure to use seatbelts.

“The vehicle was lawfully intercepted for identifiable traffic violations, including overloading and seatbelt non-compliance. In line with standard procedures, appropriate steps were taken to enforce compliance,” it said.

The situation reportedly escalated after the driver refused to comply with lawful directives, attracting a crowd and heightening tension at the scene.

“During the course of the operation, the driver became non-compliant and diverted from lawful directives, creating a scene that attracted public attention and increased tension within the area,” the statement added.

Responding to claims of assault, the FRSC denied any wrongdoing by its personnel.

“It is important to categorically state that at no time did any FRSC personnel assault, threaten, or attempt to use force against the driver or any occupant of the vehicle,” it said.

The Corps also clarified that the individual seen in the viral video holding an iron rod was neither an officer nor connected to the driver.

“The individual seen in the circulating video holding an iron rod is neither connected to the driver nor to the Corps, but rather a passerby whose actions have been misconstrued,” it added.

The agency said its operatives eventually de-escalated the situation by disengaging to restore calm and prevent further tension.

“The decision to de-escalate the situation, by disengaging and restoring calm, was taken in the interest of public safety,” the statement noted.