A human rights activist has criticized the Federal Road Safety Corps’ (FRSC) call for its personnel to be allowed to bear arms, describing it as a “misplaced priority.” Derrick Oritsematosan Agberen stated that the proposal demonstrates a “misunderstanding of what true road safety is.” In a statement, Agberen emphasized that road safety is primarily about public enlightenment, prevention, and discipline, rather than intimidation.
Agberen’s comments come as the FRSC has been seeking approval from the Federal Government to arm its personnel. However, the activist argued that Nigeria already has numerous agencies that harass citizens with weapons, including the police, customs, and NDLEA. He questioned the need to add another layer of fear on the country’s already dangerous roads, noting that guns will not address the underlying issues of poor infrastructure and corruption.
Instead, Agberen suggested that FRSC officers should focus on professionalism, digital monitoring, and public education to earn respect. He believes that the use of technology, such as dashcams and automated number plate systems, can help improve road safety without the need for firearms. Agberen also emphasized that carrying arms is not about safety, but about power, and that allowing one corps to bear arms could lead to others making similar demands.
The activist argued that the root causes of accidents on Nigerian roads are lack of discipline, infrastructure, and transparency, rather than a lack of bullets. He called on the FRSC to lead by example, end bribery, improve training, and push the government for safer road networks. Agberen concluded that better training, technology, and integrity are more effective ways to save lives from reckless driving than arming FRSC personnel.
The debate over the FRSC’s proposal highlights the challenges facing Nigeria’s road safety efforts. As the country continues to grapple with issues of corruption, poor infrastructure, and lack of discipline on its roads, the need for effective solutions has become increasingly pressing. The FRSC’s call for its personnel to be armed has sparked a wider discussion about the best approaches to improving road safety in Nigeria.
