By Daniel Tyokua
The Federal Capital Territory Squadron leader and National Coordinator of road traffic and Vehicle Inspection Officers Mayors, Dr Yusuf John Suberu, has dismissed the report by International traffic report against FCT Directorate of Road Traffic Services.
He said the report released by the organisation alleging lopsidedness in DRTS appointment of sectional heads, use of casual staff and deviation from the constitution roles was unfounded.
Suberu explained that the traffic services was responsible for various public services such as issuance of driver’s license and number plate registration, which its activities have been rated high for good operations.
He decried the claim of an imbalance in appointments, asserting that the present leadership structure represents a fair distribution across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
According to him, “the commercial division, for instance, is headed by someone from the North Central, while the Northwest oversees motor vehicle administration.
He added that, ” The DTT division is led by a representative from the North Central, and the SERVICOM division is headed by a Southeasterner.
“The South Easterners hold key positions in the finance, administration, and public relations divisions.
“Moreover, the legal division is headed by an individual from the North Central, and the deputy director of operations hails from the Southwest.
“This diversity exemplifies adherence to the principles of true federal character.
On the issue of casual staff, Dr Suberu acknowledged the presence of some individuals who do not uphold their duties adequately, which he said efforts are being made, under the supervision of the director and area commanders, to identify and rectify such cases.
He said touting within the DRTS predates the current director’s tenure.
The intelligence and provost department has been diligent in apprehending those involved in the production of counterfeit documents and number plates,” he said.
He stated that calls for a complete overhaul of the directorate was unnecessary considering the strategic ongoing reforms initiated by the director.
The coordinator also said a s the representative of CSOs on road safety matters in Nigeria, he will continue to collaborate with groups and relevant government traffic agencies, including the DRTS and the FRSC to More positive results.
While acknowledging the right of the International Traffic Observation Initiative to raise concerns, Suberu believes it is important to respond and provide a more balanced perspective.
“Notably, the DRTS in conjunction with the Ministerial Task Team, Civil Defence, DSS, Police, and other stakeholders, has been actively conducting operations against tricycle and motorcycle riding in the city centre.
“Under the leadership of the current Director of FCT DRTS, Dr Bello, the department has achieved milestones, leading to recent recognition awards from the FCTA for the heads of the team,” he added.
