The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has warned motorists against driving against traffic, popularly known as “one-way”, particularly around road construction sites, diversion points and other areas where traffic movement has been temporarily or permanently restricted.
Josephine Adeh, police public relations officer, FCT Command, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.
Ms Adeh, a superintendent of police, noted that calls to senior police officers, government officials or other influential personalities will not secure the release of offenders.
The Command said it was concerned about the increasing disregard for traffic regulations by some motorists who deliberately drive against traffic, disregard road signs and bypass diversions in an attempt to evade traffic congestion.
No exemption for anyone
The Command warned against the practice of contacting senior police officers, government officials or other influential personalities to facilitate release when apprehended for traffic violations.
“No individual, regardless of status, position or connections, will be exempted from the consequences of violating traffic regulations,” the statement said.
CP orders crackdown
Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, has issued a stern directive to the Command’s Motor Traffic Department (MOTOPOL) and all Divisional Traffic Officers (DTOs) to work closely with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other relevant traffic management agencies to intensify enforcement operations.
The directive is to ensure the arrest and immediate prosecution of any motorist found driving against traffic or disobeying lawful traffic directions.
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Mr Sanusi also warned enforcement officers to refrain from exploiting the exercise to extort road users.
He warned that any officer found extorting motorists would be dealt with in accordance with extant Police Rules and Regulations.
The Command urged motorists to exercise patience, obey traffic signs and follow instructions from traffic officers.
“Road users were reminded that a few minutes saved through reckless driving are not worth the risk of losing lives or causing property damage,” the statement said.
The FCT Police Command urged residents to remain security-conscious and promptly report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency numbers: 08032003913, 08061581938.
