Prominent lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor raised concerns about a bill proposing to arm Federal Road Safety Corps officials. He criticised the proposal, calling it a dangerous step for public safety on Nigerian roads. Ejiofor believes this move could lead to chaos and increase violence during traffic stops. He urged lawmakers to reject the bill, citing the potential for abuse of power.
Arming the FRSC: A Dangerous Precedent
Ejiofor expressed his apprehension in a statement on Thursday, stressing that the core responsibility of the FRSC is to manage traffic, not to enforce laws with weapons. He warned that introducing firearms to a civilian agency could lead to abuses of power, especially given previous incidents involving armed law enforcement officials.
Fear of Increased Violence
The lawyer cited examples of law enforcement officers mishandling firearms, leading to unnecessary loss of lives. “Arming the FRSC will only create anarchy on our roads,” Ejiofor stated. He stressed that adding weapons to the equation would only increase the risk of violence during routine traffic stops.
FRSC’s Role Should Remain Civil
Ejiofor argued that the FRSC’s duties, as set out by law, focus on traffic management, education, and regulation. He emphasised that introducing weapons would undermine these responsibilities and create an atmosphere of fear among road users.
Call for Modern Solutions
Rather than arming FRSC officials, Ejiofor proposed modernising the agency through the use of technology and improved training. He advocated for enhanced collaboration with other security agencies to address road safety issues without resorting to violence.
A Plea for Public Safety
Ejiofor urged lawmakers and citizens to reject the bill immediately. He stressed that Nigeria’s roads should remain safe spaces. He warned against turning roads into battlegrounds for law enforcement agencies. Ejiofor emphasised that maintaining peace on the roads is crucial for public safety.
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