The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued a warning to celebrities, social media influencers, and content creators to refrain from using public roads as a backdrop for creating online content. This caution comes after a viral video showed a popular TikTok personality, Peller, live-streaming while driving, which ultimately led to a road accident.
According to the Corps Marshal, Mallam Shehu Mohammed, using a phone to record, stream, or create content while driving poses a significant distraction, putting the lives of passengers and other road users at risk. This behavior is a clear contravention of traffic laws, and the FRSC has vowed to take action against those involved in reckless driving, phone use while driving, or any form of distracted driving.
Mohammed has directed the Lagos state sector commander to initiate legal proceedings against individuals engaging in such hazardous activities, in line with existing laws. The FRSC boss has also called upon actors’ guilds, entertainment groups, and influencer communities to educate their members on safe and responsible driving practices.
Celebrities and influencers, due to their significant following, particularly among young people, have a responsibility to promote safety rather than encourage dangerous behavior, Mohammed emphasized. The FRSC will enforce traffic rules without bias, regardless of an individual’s social status, as no online trend or popularity is worth risking a human life.
The FRSC has reminded Nigerians that roads are public spaces designed to protect lives, not filming locations. Citizens are urged to report instances of dangerous driving, which can help prevent accidents and ensure road safety. The Corps Marshal’s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the need for all road users to adhere to traffic laws, promoting a safer environment for everyone.
The FRSC’s stance on this issue is part of its broader efforts to reduce road accidents and promote road safety in Nigeria. By targeting influencers and content creators, the agency aims to leverage their reach to spread awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of responsible behavior on the roads. As the FRSC continues to enforce traffic laws and educate the public, it is essential for all road users to prioritize safety and adhere to the rules of the road.