Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III and Zonal Commanding Officer of FRSC, RS10 Headquarters Sokoto, Assistant Corps Marshal (ACM) Shoba Akande
Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on Nigerians, particularly motorists, to shun drunk driving, overloading, reckless driving and mixed loading, describing them as major causes of avoidable road traffic crashes across the country.
The revered traditional ruler made the appeal when he received the newly appointed Zonal Commanding Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), RS10 Headquarters Sokoto, Assistant Corps Marshal (ACM) Shoba Akande, during a courtesy visit to his palace in Sokoto.
The Sultan urged the FRSC to strengthen its enforcement efforts against traffic violations in order to reduce the alarming rate of crashes, injuries and fatalities on Nigerian roads.
“Drunk driving, mixed loading, overloading and reckless driving offences remain prevalent and contribute significantly to road traffic crashes, fatalities and injuries on Nigerian highways,” the Sultan noted.
While commending the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, and the entire management of the agency for their achievements in promoting road safety and enforcing traffic regulations, the Sultan encouraged personnel of the Corps to remain dedicated to their responsibilities despite the challenges associated with the job.
He also expressed concern over reported incidents in which some motorists allegedly attack or knock down FRSC officials while they are carrying out their lawful duties, describing such acts as both inhumane and criminal.
The Sultan further pledged his continued support for the FRSC and other institutions committed to protecting lives and promoting the welfare of citizens.
Earlier, ACM Akande said the visit was to formally introduce himself as the 24th Zonal Commanding Officer of RS10 Headquarters, which oversees Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states, and to seek the Sultan’s blessings, guidance and support.
He described the Sultan as a highly respected leader and father figure whose influence extends beyond Nigeria’s borders, adding that his counsel would be invaluable in the discharge of his responsibilities.
Akande also conveyed the goodwill and best wishes of the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, to the Sultan and the people of the Sokoto Caliphate.
As part of the visit, the FRSC delegation presented an award in recognition of the Sultan’s contributions and support to the Corps.
The delegation included the Sector Commander of the Sokoto Sector Command, Corps Commander Umar Adamu Argungu; the Zonal Head of Operations, Corps Commander A.Y. Rafi; the Zonal and State Coordinators of Special Marshals; and other senior officers from the Zonal Headquarters and Sokoto Sector Command.
