…as Olukere of Ikere-Ekiti warns of rising motor spare parts costs threatening safe transportation
By Udesinanna Stephen
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Ekiti State Command has said it will collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to curb the sale of alcohol in bus terminals or stations in the state.
Speaking with reporters today after a “Stakeholders Townhall Meeting” on transport issues held in Ado-Ekiti, the Sector Commander CC Elijah Joseph raised concerns about alcohol consumption to road safety and the potential for poor driving.
However, he acknowledged the challenges in implementing the plan, noting that alcohol sellers believe they have the right to conduct their business, having paid for their spots.
Notwithstanding, Commander Joseph revealed that the State FRSC will work with the NDLEA to leverage their expertise in combating drug-related issues.
“We will continue to push to ensure that people like that (alcohol and drug traders) are not seen within the (Bus) terminal places.
“Everybody is claiming rights and as such they believe that we are in democracy and it is their rights to do legitimate businesses. So if we will do that we will do it in collaboration with the The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) because when it comes to issues of substance that’s their primary focus.”
Also speaking is the Honourable Commissioner for Transportation, Kolawole Ajobiewe, represented by Senior Special Assistant to Ekiti State Governor on Transportation, Olaoluwa Arolasuyi, he disclosed that the state has fostered partnerships with neighboring Ondo, Osun, and Kogi states in a bid to enhance seamless inter-state transportation and road safety.
“We have major federal roads connecting Ekiti to Kogi and Osun states, and we’re collaborating to ensure safe transportation.”
Meanwhile, Federal Controller of Works, Engr Wasiu Owolabi, identified problematic roads, including Akure-Ikere-Ado-Ekiti, Ado-Iyin to Aramoko, and Ifaki.
“Despite challenges, the federal government is working to make these roads functional. I implore road users to exercise caution and respect workers on these projects,” Owolabi appealed.
Earlier, Olukere of Ikere-Ekiti, represented by Dr. Olusola Osundare raised concerns on the economic situation of Nigeria, where the cost of spare parts is exorbitant making it challenging for drivers to replace significant damaged motor parts as buses are operating beyond their lifespan.
Some of the Stakeholders’ who spoke laments on the poor road signs in the states which is detrimental for other state drivers, thereby calling on the government to look into the issues.
They also lamented on the lack of special training for Okada drivers, saying there is nothing like professional Okada drivers.
Some bodies present at the event includes: State Secretary Special Marshal, Tipper Drivers Association, Okada riders, Ekiti State Police Command.
