LEADERSHIP gathered that within the period under review, 679 were injured to various degrees. In addition, 214 crashes were recorded in the state. However, in 2022, only 110 people were killed in 266 fatal crashes while 1,022 people were variously injured.

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The Zonal Commanding Officer FRSC RS12 Bauchi, Joel Dagwa disclosed this on the occasion of the 2023 ‘EMBER’ months Roads Safety Campaign.

“It is unfortunate that we could see the trend in which precious lives and properties were lost. Road Safety is not just a Governmental responsibility; it is a shared responsibility that rests on the shoulders of every one of us from government agencies, the Royal Fathers, society, sister agencies, drivers and passengers.

“This necessitated our management to include “Road Safety Partnership For Innovation and Intervention” as No.2 of the FRSC Corporate Strategic Goals 2023.

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“The Ember Months physically spanning from September to December
traditionally witness a surge in Road Traffic Crashes and Fatalities. This alarming trend has prompted us to come together as a community, as responsible citizens, to address this critical issue and make our roads safer for the good people of Bauchi State and Nigeria at large,” he said.

Joel Dagwa added that, “This Flag-off is an extension of the activities of our National Headquarters which is expected to be carried out in all our Sector and Unit Commands. The initiative carries immense importance in our collective commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all road users during the Ember Months and beyond.”

He said there is an impending need to educate drivers and other road users about the dangers of reckless driving, the importance of wearing belts, the use of helmets, adhering to speed limits, the dangers of overloading, the use of good tyres and fire extinguishers.” Knowledge is power, and by spreading awareness, we empower ourselves to make better choices,” he insisted.

Dagwa added “We must recognize that we owe a responsibility to ourselves, our families and fellow citizens to make good use of the roads. Irresponsible action on the road can have far-reaching consequences, and it is our duty to ensure that our behaviour on the road is exemplary.”

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“We play a leading role in ensuring that safety rules are obeyed and enforced. However, we emphasize education and awareness as preventive measures before enforcement.”