By Mercy Aikoye
Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, and other former leaders of the agency are advocating for FRSC personnel to be allowed to carry arms. This proposal is part of a bill to create a special squad for the FRSC, which was discussed at a public hearing.
According to Mohammed, FRSC operatives have often been killed, maimed, and molested by criminals while on rescue missions. He emphasized that road safety law enforcement agents worldwide are armed for security and safety purposes. This perspective is shared by Gen. Haladu Hananiiya, the pioneer Corps Marshal of the FRSC, who appreciated the House for introducing the bill.
Former Chairman of the governing board of the Commission, Mallam Bukhari Bello, and Sule Usman, SAN, also expressed support for the proposed amendments. They urged speedy passage of the bill to bring its benefits to bear in no time. Retired Deputy Corps Marshal Kayode Olagunju shared a personal experience where he was shot by hoodlums while trying to stop number plate fraud in Lagos.
Olagunju emphasized that the argument of proliferation or accidental discharge would not be an issue if personnel are properly trained. Another retired Deputy Corps Marshal, Charles Akpabio, recalled an incident where his patrol team was attacked by an Okada mob while rescuing accident victims. He stressed the need for a special armed squad to protect FRSC facilities and personnel.
The National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) expressed total support for the proposed amendments. Dr. Kassim Ibrahim stated that a robust and effective FRSC is necessary, and it is essential to protect the lives of officers and facilities. However, the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the National Tricycle and Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association (NACTOMORAS) expressed reservations about the bill.
Comrade Frank Uche from NURTW argued that the armed squad would duplicate the functions of the police, which already has the clear mandate of securing lives. He emphasized the potential for abuse, especially given the current economic situation in the country. Mohammed Sani Hasaan of NACTOMORAS noted that the only objection to the armed squad was that FRSC personnel work in civilian-dominated areas.
Chairman of the House Committee on the Federal Road Safety Commission, Abiodun Adesida, stated that the hearing marked a pivotal moment in the drive to reposition the FRSC. He explained that there are more strict penalties for road offenses, aimed at protecting personnel who often put their lives on the line.
The proposal to allow FRSC personnel to carry arms has sparked debate, with some arguing that it is necessary for their safety and others expressing concerns about potential abuse. The outcome of the bill remains to be seen.
