FRSC cracks down on overloading, nabs 58 offenders in Gombe

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Gombe State Command, says it has arrested 58 offenders since the launch of its “War Against Overloading” campaign in the state.

The state Sector Commander, Mr Samson Kaura, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Gombe on Monday.

Kaura said the campaign began in April as part of the corps’ efforts to reduce the high number of casualties resulting from road traffic crashes caused by overloaded vehicles.

He said overloading remained one of the leading causes of fatal road crashes in the state.

According to him, tackling the menace is essential, adding that reducing crash-related deaths requires strict enforcement of load limits, public awareness and responsible behaviour by drivers and vehicle owners.

The sector commander said avoiding overloading was not just a traffic rule but a lifesaving measure that protects drivers, passengers and other road users.

According to him, vehicles are manufactured with specific limits on the number of passengers and the amount of goods they are designed to carry.

“But we neglect the authorised specifications and overload our vehicles.

“When these vehicles are overloaded, movement becomes difficult because of the excess weight, which contributes to higher fuel consumption as they cannot move fast enough.

“The lifespan of the vehicle is also affected because it will not last as long as it is supposed to.

“If an overloaded vehicle that is designed to carry no more than five passengers is involved in a crash, there will likely be more casualties because it was carrying too many people and goods.

“That is why we need to nip the issue of overloading in the bud to reduce the number of fatalities from road traffic crashes.”

Kaura urged passengers to avoid boarding overloaded vehicles because of the dangers involved. He also advised vehicle owners to desist from overloading their vehicles, especially during the rainy season.

“When a vehicle is overloaded, its stability is compromised and controlling it becomes difficult, putting everyone on board at risk,” he said.

(NAN)