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The Lagos State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced a ramped-up effort to ensure road safety beyond the festive season through its ongoing “Operation Zero Tolerance Programme.” This initiative is designed to reduce accidents and maintain a steady flow of traffic on key routes throughout Lagos State.
In an exclusive interview with PUNCH Online, Route Commander Elizabeth Jayeola, the Lagos State Public Enlightenment Officer for the FRSC, outlined the programme’s goals and strategies.
“We are continuing with the ‘Operation Zero Tolerance Programme’ until after schools resume. Our primary focus is ensuring smooth traffic flow on all major corridors, including the Lagos-Ibadan, Apapa-Badagry, and Lekki-Epe roads,” Jayeola stated.
Education remains a cornerstone of the programme. The FRSC is conducting awareness campaigns across a wide range of public spaces, including churches, parks, and mosques. Jayeola emphasized, “We’ll also begin school outreach programs as soon as students return, ensuring we continue to engage young road users.”
While the FRSC continues to enforce traffic laws by issuing fines for offenders, the initiative also emphasizes educating the public to encourage long-term behavioural changes that promote road safety.
“We are not just about issuing fines; we aim to change driving behaviour for the better,” Jayeola explained.
The FRSC also targets those engaging in dangerous driving habits, such as using mobile phones while driving, neglecting seatbelts, overtaking improperly, and speeding. These behaviours are seen as reckless and unsafe, often endangering both the driver and others on the road.
To address these issues, offenders may be required to undergo psychological evaluations at certified medical facilities. “Psychological evaluations help us assess whether individuals are mentally fit to drive responsibly,” Jayeola noted.
She further stated that after an offender undergoes a psychological test and is cleared to return to driving, they are required to attend a mandatory safety education program. This ensures they are well-informed and committed to safe driving practices.
Jayeola concluded by underscoring the dual focus of the programme: corrective measures for offenders and preventative strategies to foster long-term safe driving habits. “We believe this approach will lead to lasting improvements in road safety and help protect all road users,” she added.
Through the “Operation Zero Tolerance Programme,” the FRSC continues to demonstrate its dedication to reducing road accidents and fostering a culture of responsible driving throughout Lagos State.
