In a strong cautionary statement, the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement (TRACE) Corps has urged drivers and commercial motorcyclists to discontinue their reliance on charms while on the road. The spokesman for TRACE, Babatunde Akinbiyi, delivered this message during an exclusive interview with Media Talk Africa in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
According to Akinbiyi, a significant number of drivers display reckless behavior due to their unwavering faith in charms they adorn on their bodies before embarking on their journeys. These individuals maintain the belief that they are immune to road crashes or that they will miraculously emerge unharmed in the event of a fatal incident.
The spokesman for the traffic agency observed that these drivers exhibit carelessness and disregard for the lives of their passengers, which ultimately jeopardizes not only their own lives but also the lives of innocent commuters.
He emphasized, “Some of these motorists have unwavering faith in metaphysical powers and adorn themselves with charms, believing they are shielded from harm. However, they selfishly prioritize their own protection without considering the well-being of their passengers. Should anything happen to these passengers, it is the drivers who bear the responsibility, as they led them into danger.”
Continuing, Akinbiyi explained, “Moreover, charms do not work in the manner that these individuals perceive. If the charm is not utilized correctly, it will not offer protection. Consequently, the driver will suffer the consequences. The best approach to preventing road accidents is to observe all traffic rules and regulations.”
He further elaborated, “It is crucial not to become excessively reliant on metaphysics. I do not dispute the existence of charms, but it is crucial to understand how they should be used. Consider a driver who, in violation of traffic laws, drives against the flow of traffic. Can they truly believe they are safe just because they have adorned themselves with charms?”
To underscore his point, Akinbiyi quoted the revered Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, who frequently addresses the issue of what he terms the Road Accident Immunity Delusion Syndrome (RAIDS) among Nigerian drivers.
He remarked, “This is precisely why Professor Wole Soyinka often speaks out against the Road Accident Immunity Delusion Syndrome (RAIDS). Drivers labor under the mistaken belief that they are secure when accompanied by these charms. Such a belief is both misguided and delusional.”
Akinbiyi called for a change in attitude and a profound shift in behavior among drivers, particularly during the Ember months—a period characterized by increased vehicular activities as people prepare for the end-of-year festivities.
