Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde has assured residents of the state that his administration would continue to embark on building infrastructure that impact on the economy of the state.
The governor stated this in Ido while inaugurating the 10 kilometres Omi-Adio to Ido Junction Road constructed by Ido Local Government.
He added that his administration will continue to support the efforts of Local Government Areas in line with the developmental plans of the state.
Governor Makinde, who spoke at the Ido Clay Mining Station venue of the event, said the new road is of great economic importance to the state as the axis is set to become an economic hub.
“Let me especially thank the contractors, because after the award, we started facing economic headwinds. We awarded it in February and, by May, there was a change in government and they announced removal of the fuel subsidy. So, the price of asphalt, which was a major component, went through the roof.
“This road has economic importance. It links a particular rail line here. With this and also with the one we just opened, which leads to Orita Challenge and the plan we have for Owode Estate, this whole place will be a big hub for development.”
The governor promised to relocate the popular Omi Adio Market by the railroad side to a better location within the shortest period, calling on Ido Local Government to embark on the enumeration of traders at the market.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Segun Olayiwola described the road project as another achievement to move the state forward and make life more comfortable for the people.
Similarly, the Chairman, Ido Local Government, Mr Sheriff Adeojo, said the project was successful because of Governor Makinde’s friendly policy of supporting worthy projects at the local government level.
Ekiti State Government has decried the threat being posed by unregistered vehicles, tricycles and motorcycles to road safety and security within the state.
The Ekiti State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Kehinde Ajobiewe who stated this while fielding questions from newsmen in Ado-Ekiti, advised those concerned to do the needful to avoid embarrassment.
Mr Ajobiewe noted that owners of unregistered vehicles often bypass essential inspections and regulations, declaring that they will no longer be permitted to ply roads in the state.
According to the Commissioner, the enforcement exercise will commence early next year, saying that it was not meant to kill businesses but to put sanity into the transportation sector.
Mr Ajobiewe however re-stated Government’s unwavering commitments to improve road safety and ensure that transport operators adhere strictly to the necessary regulations and highway codes.
He stressed that the massive ongoing road intervention projects across the State was an indication that Governor Biodun Oyebanji was working in accordance with his six pillars of administration for the State’s development.
Operatives of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Ogun State Command, on Sunday night, carried out a rescue operation on Idiroko -Ota route, last involving 10 persons which comprised of five male adults, four female adults and a girl.
A statement by the Public Education Officer of the Corps, Mrs Florence Okpe indicated that the crash which occurred at about 8pm, claimed two male lives and left eight people injured.
The statement says that the injured victims were taken to General Hospital Idiroko for treatment while the corpses had taken away by the family.
It said that the suspected cause of the crash which involved two vehicles; a truck with registration number LSR 10YD and a Toyota Carina with no registration number, was wrongful overtaking that led to head on collision.
According to the statement, the State Sector Commander, Mr Anthony Uga advised motorists to always have a clear vision of between one hundred fifty and two hundred meters at nights and a controlled speed before overtaking .
The Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, is to deploy two thousand personnel comprising Regular and Special Marshals to oversee traffic activities on highways across Ogun State as part of its 2023 Ember Months Special Patrol Operations.
The Ogun Sector, Commander, Mr Anthony Uga, who made this known in a statement in Abeokuta, said the special operations which began last Friday would end on Monday 15th January, 2024.
Mr Uga said the Command had also deployed 50 patrol vehicles, 10 Advanced Life Support Ambulances, 10 patrol motorbikes, 4 heavy-duty tow trucks and radar guns to detect the speed of oncoming vehicles to enhance the smooth operations of the officers.
Announcing that the focus of the Special Patrol Operations would focus on dangerous driving and overtaking, overloading violations, tyre violations, violation of speed limits by all categories of vehicles, lane indiscipline, use of phone while driving, seat belt use violation among others, the Ogun state sector commander noted that FRSC formations would operate 24 hours Rescue Operations throughout the duration of the Special Patrol Operations.
He encouraged motorists to always carry out a routine check on their vehicle before going out in the morning and ensure their vehicle’s braking system works perfectly before putting it on the road.
Mr Uga noted that any motorist apprehended flouting traffic rules during the Yuletide would be treated as driving dangerously and could be prosecuted, adding that a mobile court would be on the ground to support the Special Patrol Operations across the road corridors in Ogun State.
The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon Adebo Ogundoyin has urged the contractor handling the Ido-Eruwa road rehabilitation project to expedite work on the road and ensure that a quality job is done.
Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin stated this when he inspected the 48km road project which was awarded by Governor Seyi Makinde in February 2023.
Hon Adebo Ogundoyin, who was accompanied by the Chairman, Oyo State House of Assembly Committee on Public Works, Hon. Kehinde Olatunde was led on the inspection tour by the Project Manager, Engr. Vincent Okafor.
The Speaker said the road was in fulfilment of the promise of Governor Seyi Makinde to link all zones across the State and it is very important to the people of Ibarapaland hence the Contractor cannot afford to do a poor job.
“I came to assess the extent of work on the 48km Ido-Eruwa road rehabilitation project which is going on in my constituency, Ibarapa East State Constituency. I came for a kind of oversight. This is to ensure that quality work is done and that the work is done to specification. It is to remind the construction company of the duration and time of delivery of the project. I am happy that the Project Manager promised to hand over the work to the State Government by July 2024. To this end, I told the construction company to speed up work to complete the project as scheduled.
“It’s also an opportunity for me to relate with the Contractor to know some of the challenges being experienced by his team on the site. Moreover, I decided to inspect the road to ensure that it is in a manageable condition for people who will be travelling during the festive season, and to appeal to motorists and residents to be patient and bear the pain for now. I am sure when the road is completed, it will be one of the best in the State.” Oyo Speaker said
He assured the contractor of the continued support of the State Government especially in terms of funding.
Line drains, earthworks and culverts have already been done on some parts of the road while lateritic sub-based have been completed on other parts.
The significance of civil aviation in fostering global trade, air connectivity, tourism, peace, and prosperity takes center stage as the global community celebrates the International Civil Aviation Day, ICAO Day 2023, with the theme: “Advancing Innovation for Global Aviation Development”.
In this special report, our correspondent delves into Nigeria’s contributions to global aviation development, encompassing safety, connectivity, environmental sustainability, economic impact, and more.
Nigeria stands proudly as a member of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), diligently adhering to its standards and recommended practices.
Regular audits, conducted every three to four years, ensure the nation’s aviation industry upholds stringent safety and security measures.
In the latest audit, Nigeria achieved a commendable 70%.
The surge in passenger traffic, both domestic and international, has prompted substantial investments in the enhancement of airspace and airport infrastructure.
In a interview, Director of Operations, Nigeria Air Management Agency (NAMA), Mr. Mathew Pwajok, explained that the automation of airport systems has reduced congestion and elevated safety standards.
“We have implemented the data communication system that reduces the use of voice thereby reducing flight delays”.
Biometric identification and streamlined check-in processes has made significant improvements in the passenger experience.
These innovations, highlighted by Minister of Interior, Mr. Olubunmni Tunji-Ojo, not only enhance customer satisfaction but also contribute to the overall efficiency of air travel operations.
“Just tap your passport, look into the camera and once you are good, you go”.
Nigeria has actively been promoting air connectivity through bilateral air services agreements and commitment to the Single Africa Air Transport Market (SAATM).
Secretary General of the Africa Civil Aviation Commission, Ms. Funke Adeyemi, views SAATM as an initiative fostering prosperity and peace across the continent.
“So that, we connect, integrate so that, we can get the benefits as a continent that others have been enjoying”.
In response to the global call for reducing carbon emissions in the aviation industry, Nigeria has taken action.
An airline operator, Mr. Roland Iyayi, reveals that the purchase and order of new airplanes are among the solutions explored to diminish the industry’s carbon footprint.
“These are airplanes that are designed specifically for fuel efficiency to reduce carbon footprint in our operations”.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo emphasizes the key role of effective collaboration in achieving advancements and reaping the benefits of air transport.
“It is essential and expedient to continue to promote knowledge sharing and business development within Africa aviation community”.
The Director General, Civil Aviation, Captain Musa Nuhu assures steadfastness in charting a new course for the aviation industry.
“We cannot keep operating the way we are operating, changes have to come and we have started the process”.
Captain Nuhu pledges to implement training and up-skilling programs aligned with evolving technology, ensuring aviation professionals possess the necessary skills to operate and manage advanced systems.
Oyo State Government has approved the construction of two unit commands of the Federal Road Safety Corps, as part of its efforts to ensure safety on the roads.
The Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Professor Dahud Kehinde Sangodoyin disclosed this when he received the management team of FRSC and Staff College Senior Course 2 who were on a study tour to the Ministry.
Professor Sangodoyin stated that when the construction of Ibadan Circular Road is completed, the FRSC unit commands will be constructed along the route, adding that the Governor of the State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, signed FRSC station at Moniya six months ago, which is going to be like a school for the agency.
He also disclosed that one of the reasons for embarking on diverse road constructions in the State is to reduce accidents on the roads as part of its responsibilities to protect the lives and properties of its citizens.
Sangodoyin explained that it is not only the ‘Ember’ months that contribute to accidents, but also bad roads, incompetent driving, and unworthy vehicles.
According to the Commissioner, the State Government is planning an improved transportation system through the construction of roads that would link all the zones in the State, and reduce time spent traveling.
He said, “If you move to Saki Township Road, which is 9.7 kilometres; it is a completely new road.”
“Between 2011 and 2021 when the road was commissioned, the Moniya-Iseyin road was terrible, and fatal accidents used to occur. But now, the statistics on that road have revealed that accidents have reduced due to the completed construction of the road and drivers are now spending little amount to maintain their vehicles.”
Also speaking, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Engineer Tajudeen Raji, assured FRSC of a strong synergy, so as to ensure safety and reduce accidents on our roads.
Highlighting the different steps taken to curb accidents on the road by the agency, the Commandant, Federal Road Safety Corp Staff College, Assistant Corp Marshall Benjamin Nkwonta, explained that sensitization is ongoing in the media, motor parks, Registered Transportation Corporations, and religious houses.
He said the corps is creating awareness on the ‘Ember’ months, adding that the enlightenment has worked overtime as a preventive measure.
The Commandant urged the public to report any wrongdoing from officers while discharging their duties, stating that every officer has a name badge that could be mentioned when reporting.
“If any officer demands a bribe from you, know the time of collection; check the name and the location, all you need to do is call us. We have zero tolerance for corruption,” he said.
While imploring motorists to make sure they are psychologically and emotionally fit to drive, he implored them to utilize FRSC’s Computerized Vehicle Inspection Center to check the condition of their vehicles for free.
A Nigerian Air Force helicopter, on Friday, crash-landed and exploded at the NAF Base, Port Harcourt.
Though what led to the crash could not be immediately ascertained, it was learnt that the incident occurred around 7.50 am.
A source said, “I was inside my apartment when I heard this thunderous sound at the NAF Base.
“The next thing I saw was a thick flame. I don’t know if there are casualties because I can’t go close to the scene for now. But I heard a blast twice. ”
Confirming the crash in a statement, the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, said the NAF MI-35P had taken off to embark on an operation against oil thieves in Rivers State.
He added that five persons on board survived with minor injuries
The statement read, “A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) MI-35P helicopter has crashed at Port Harcourt today, December 1, 2023. The unfortunate incident occurred at about 7.45 am shortly after the aircraft took off for an operation against economic saboteurs in Rivers State.
” Fortunately, the entire crew of five survived the crash with very minor injuries and are currently being attended to at NAF Medical Centre Port Harcourt.’
He said the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, was on his way to the scene to assess the situation.
“The Chief of Air Staff is currently en route to Port Harcourt to assess the situation for himself, see to the wellbeing of the crew, and give further directives.
“An incident of this nature is yet again a grim reminder of the dangers associated with military flying and the risks NAF pilots and technicians experience in their onerous tasks of defending our nation and deterring criminal elements from their nefarious activities, ” the statement added.
Ogun State government will soon begin construction of bus stations for the take-off of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mass Transit along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.
The State Commissioner for Transportation, Engineer Dairo Olugbenga, who disclosed while speaking on a radio programme in Abeokuta, said the stations are to be sited in Mowe, Ibafo, Arepo, and Berger axis of the expressway.
Dairo said construction will commence in earnest, saying that necessary implementation frameworks are being put in place. He appealed to the people to support the state government by enabling construction activity in those areas.
“I want to use this medium to plead to our people for their support, as this is another integral development geared towards easing the movement of people and goods in Ogun State, which will serve as a respite to environmental pollution by reducing emissions and promote a cleaner and safer environment in the state,” he said.
The Commissioner noted that the CNG-powered mass transit buses will be deployed to the corridor for cheaper and safe movement in advance of the construction of the bus stations.
Speaking on the process of operating the urban transport system in the state, Dairo highlighted infrastructure, law compliance, operation, and price control as the four key elements applied by the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.
He said, “We need to let our people know that there are four applicable and adopted ways to transportation, and that is infrastructure, which if you observe during our first tenure, the Governor has worked on bad roads in all the local government areas of the state and work is still on-going.
“The second is law enforcement which will ensure all road users comply with rules and regulations guiding the usage of the roads, fostering security and safety for passengers and drivers while the third is operation.
“We are going to formalise transport operation, in that, whoever is going into it must have between 10 to 30 buses under him.
“Current operators will be encouraged to coalesce into cooperatives. This will aid proper management and monitoring of the movement of goods and people in the state.
“Aside from this, there is price control. This administration is further working on providing affordable transportation for the good people of Ogun State.”
One person has been presumed dead, while seven others sustained varying degrees of injuries in a lone accident at the Fidiwo axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
The Public Education Officer, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Ogun Sector Command, Mrs Florence Okpe who made known in Abeokuta, said the lone accident involved a Daf truck conveying both passengers and animals.
Mrs Okpe who attributed the cause of the crash to a burst tyre while the driver was on top speed, said the injured victims had been taken to a nearby hospital at Ogere for medical attention.
She also pointed out that a second accident occurred at the long bridge section of the expressway involving a fallen kerosene tanker that spilt its contents on the road, adding that the situation had been managed by FRSC operatives and other stakeholders and no death was recorded at the scene of the accident.
In its effort to ease movement and transportation around the Apata-Odo Ona-Challenge axis, the Oyo State Government has assured road users of the axis that the ongoing 12.5-kilometre road construction will be completed by next Monday.
The work on the road has reached about 90 per cent, remaining the median, walkway, streetlight, and some areas to cover with asphalt.
The Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Professor Kehinde Sangodoyin revealed this during an inspection of ongoing projects in Ibadan embarked upon by the Inspection Team of the Ministry.
According to the Commissioner, the inspection was focused on the work done so far since the last inspection in October, this year, and to reconcile what has been discussed with the contractor, and the engineers on site, the quality of the job, and the time of delivery.
He said,“We normally have a fixed time for the delivery of projects. When we came here in October, the contractor assured us that everything would be finished up on the carriageway by December, all things being equal”
“As it is now, they are going to make the delivery time on the carriageway in the third week of December. Some other road furniture that will be worked on are the street lights, traffic lights, and the removal of rubbles. We are going to make sure that the Ministry of Energy and the contractor will finalize the installation of the street lights.”
“The contractor has done a good job. Where we are standing now is called Lay-by, and our projection is to accommodate the commuters; so that the vision for the road construction will not be derailed. This is what we are trying to do, that is to put it into use for commuters and passers-by.
Assuring the road users around the axis of the relief the road will bring after the completion, Professor Sangodoyin said they should express their appreciation to the governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, for the speedy work.
“We have broken the back of the project; it just remains the finishing part of it. It will relieve the commuters going from the Apata end to Challenge; they don’t need to go through Benbo or 110 area. It will also add to property value here, and contribute to the ease of flow for traffic from one end to the other.”
On the commissioning, Professor Sangodoyin explained that the time will be fixed after the scope of the work is completed.
“For us, as of today November 16th, we have chosen the area which I called the ‘lay-by’ for us to use because it will be able to accommodate those that will be coming to felicitate with His Excellency when it is time to commission this road, which will be decided by Him.”
While explaining that the construction work has reached about 90 per cent, the project manager of the construction company handling the road, Anitomie Khainallah said the remaining asphalt will be laid within the next three days.
Khainallah added that the walkway and median will be completed in no time, with the assurance that the time frame for completion would be realized if everything goes as planned.
First phase of Iwo-Road-Olodo-Odo-Oba Dual Carriage Bridge on course – Commissioner
Also, the state government has decided to finish one side of the Dual Carriage Bridge along the Iwo-Road-Olodo-Odo-Oba road in order to alleviate the difficulties the motorists and road users encounter while plying the road.
Professor Dahud Sangodoyin made this known while inspecting the progress of work in continuation of the Scheduled Inspection of the ongoing projects in Ibadan.
In his explanation, the commissioner revealed that with the speed of work of the bridge, the first lane would be completed in the next five months and open for use, after which the work of the second lane would commence immediately.
According to Professor Sangodoyin, the measurement used for the construction of the Bridge will allow it to accommodate present and future flood occurrences, adding that the government is working on a quality job that will conform with the international bridge construction standards.
He said, “The work of the piling which is the critical aspect of the bridge is almost done. After the piling, all other things will follow: the columns, the decking, and others.”
“We thought that if we continued with the two lanes, the work may not finish on time, so with the advice from our consultant, we decided to complete the first phase of the bridge to ease the movement of our people, and then continue with the second one.”
“The work is not slow at all; it is good to verify information. People should come to the site to confirm the speed at which the work is going. What should take twenty-one days to dry can’t be stopped when it is ten days. This is engineering; there are processes to be followed. It should be done correctly so that it will give the desired result: this is a bridge”.
The commissioner implored everyone plying the road to be a little patient as the government is working assiduously to put a lasting solution to the flood problem in the area adding that the ongoing project is the beginning of good things to be experienced in the area.
Hundreds of commuters are currently stranded following the protest being held by Lagos commercial drivers against the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority and Task force on Monday.
According to reports the commercial drivers embarked on the strike to protest extortion.
It was observed that commuters are stranded at various bus stops and motor parks due to the low turnout of commercial vehicles in Lagos state.
An accident involving a commercial bus with number plate MUS 753 YD claimed three lives on Sunday after the vehicle caught fire along the Lekki expressway of Lagos State.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency disclosed this in a statement made available on its Facebook page on Sunday.
According to the statement, the bodies of the deceased have been transferred to the nearest morgue.
The statement read, “The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA deployed its Response Team at Lekki to a scene of a car accident, today, Sunday, 12th November 2023, at Sandfill Bus-stop, inward Ozumba Mbadiwe, Victoria Island.
“Consequent upon the arrival of the Response Team at the scene, it was discovered that a commercial bus with registration number, MUS 753 YD, was engulfed in fire. Further investigation revealed that the bus went into flames as a result of reckless driving.
“Unfortunately, the three passengers trapped in the bus were burnt to death. The commodities were bagged and handed over to SEHMU for immediate transit to the morgue. The bus was recovered off the road and moved to Maroko Police Station.”
The LASEMA boss, Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, while lamenting reckless driving on Lagos roads, urged drivers to always exercise caution and shun the habit of drinking while driving.
The Permanent Secretary, LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, while commiserating with the families of the deceased, calls on motorists to drive with caution and desist from speeding.
He further laments that commuter drivers are always in the habit of driving recklessly and taking alcohol while driving. He, therefore advises all to drive with care and make sure their vehicles are in good condition before embarking on any journey, to avoid the loss of lives and properties associated with this menace.
Five persons have been reportedly dead while two injured in a fatal crash which occurred early hours of today along Ijebu-Ode- Ore Express way between a Mack truck and a Honda Accord car with no registration number.
A statement by the Public Education Officer, Federal Road Safety Corp, Ogun Sector Command, Mrs Florence Okpe stated that the suspected causes of the crash was overspeeding and wrongful overtaking.
Mrs Okpe who described the crash as an avoidable one, if caution was put in place, also advised motorists to stop making quick turning on the expressway and use the intersection or the proper turning point.
She noted that injured victim had been taken to the General Hospital Ijebu-ode and the dead bodies deposited at the same Hospital morgue.
No fewer than five persons lost their lives in an accident that occurred at Mpape, a settlement close to the Maitama District of Abuja, on Thursday.
It was gathered that the accident occurred when a truck conveying sand had a brake failure.
Confirming the incident, the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FCT Command, Chorrie Mutaa, said the corps rescue team “recovered five dead bodies and 10 injured persons.”
Mutaa added that 13 vehicles, including the truck and a motorcycle, were involved in the accident.
The Ogun State government has unveiled the first set of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mass Transit Buses, the first of its kind in Nigeria.
This is in fulfillment of the promise made by the executive governor of Ogun state, Prince Dapo Abiodun to cushion the effect of the recent removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun while speaking at the launching said the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mass Transit Buses in the country will revolutionize the entire transport sector and reduce the hardship being experienced by Nigerians especially the good people of Ogun state.
He noted that local mechanics, who are part of the conversion engineering, had been trained, while conversion stations have been set up in the three senatorial district of the State, adding that this would allow for the rapid conversion of commercial and public mass transit buses and vehicles across the State.
The governor added that the initiative would reduce the cost0 of transporting goods and services as well as provide training and job opportunities for thousands of technicians and mechanics around the state.
Some of the buses, the governor revealed would be given to workers and students, while some would ply the Mowe- Ibafo to Berger in Lagos and Redeemed axis to Lagos Island, as the corridor was heavily congested with large cross border migration.
Abiodun appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the initiative, noting that the state government is taking the direction from the federal government as a sub- national in executing the project.
“I hope you are aware that we have commenced the construction of a Dry Port at Kajola-Papalanto corridor, which will further open up the State for investment opportunities as a verile alternative to the busy Lagos Port.
In his welcome address, Commissioner for Transportation; Engr. Olugbenga Dairo said that the unveiling of the buses marks an important milestone in the implementation of the state’s transport policies and the state multi-modal transport plan, adding that the use of alternative and cheaper fuels is also one of the key reasons why the state government established the ministry of transportation in February, 2020.
Also speaking, the member, representing Imeko and Yewa North in the Federal House of Representatives; Hon. Gboyega Nasir Isiaka described CNG as one of the challenges to the transportation problem occassioned by the fuel subsidy removal, moreso when the Federal Government was also thinking in the same direction.
He appreciated the governor for the brilliant pivotal initiative, adding that the impact must be felt by the people.
The Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC has flagged off this year’s ember months campaign in Ogun State, with emphasis on the need for road users to resist the temptation of speeding beyond stipulated limit on roads corridors around the state.
The FRSC Zonal Commanding Officer, in charge of Lagos and Ogun, Mr Gilbert Igbokwe, and the Ogun State Sector Commander of the Corps, Mr Anthony Uga, both used the avenue to educate transport operators and the public on the theme “Speed Thrills But Kills: Drive Responsibly and Avoid Speeding”.
Addressing the stakeholders at the Asero Motor Park in Abeokuta, the state capital, the FRSC Commanders urged them to be change agents and assist in spreading the message about the importance of road safety across their various groups and communities to make the roads safer for everyone.
Pointing out that crashes involving 349 trucks and articulated vehicles were recorded in the state between January and September this year, Mr Uga charged the leadership of transport unions to enforce professionalism among the drivers, especially those involved in interstate journeys.
Also, Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was represented by the Transportation Commissioner Mr Gbenga Dario at the event expressed joy that the effective collaboration between the FRSC and the state-owned Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps, TRACE was helping to ensure sanity in road traffic management across the state.
Representatives of the Nigeria Police, the Nigerian Army, the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA and Road Transport Unions also renewed their commitment to promoting road safety rules and bring the violators to book, especially those involved in the sales and use of illicit drugs around motor parks.
The federal government has called on stakeholders in the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW to come up with initiatives that will help reduce road accidents in the country.
Minister of Labour and Employment, Mr Simon Lalong who made the call during the National Union of Road Transport Workers NURTW conference in Abuja, also appealed to Transport Union leaders to always collaborate withsecurity agencies for the safety of passengers at their motor parks.
According to Lalong, the Federal Government acknowledged the role of transportation in promoting socio economic activities.
Represented by the Director Trade Unions, Mr Amos Folanipe, the minister urged the executive of NURTW to also collaborate with the federal road safety Corps and other traffic agencies for effective road managementin the country
President, International Transportation Federation for Africa, ITF Comrade Najeem Yasin tasked the executives to run an open door policy for enhance operation in the transportation sector.
The new Acting President of NURTW, Alhaji Isa Ore disclosed that the Union would commence Peaceful Dialogue to keep all members under one umbrella.
Alhaji Isa Ore Commended the various initiatives and Policies of the President Tinubu led administration and pledged the union’s support at all times.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has appointed a retired military officer, Major Adesagba Adekoya (rtd), as the chairman of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA).
The appointment, which was contained in a letter signed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, is with effect from October 23, 2023.
According to the letter, the governor congratulated the new chairman of the state’s road traffic management agency, charging him to discharge his duty with absolute loyalty, dedication and diligence.
Major Adekoya (rtd) was until his appointment the Operation and Service Manager of the Halogen Group, a private security outfit.
He had served in different capacities in the Nigerian Army, including being the Officer Commanding, 31 Artillery Brigade Provost Company, Deputy Commandant, Nigerian Army Corps of the Military Police Camp, Military Staff Officer, Conduct & Discipline (CDT), United Nations Mission in South Sudan and Officer Commanding, 401 Special Forces Brigade Provost Company, Makurdi, among others.
He holds an MSc in Management and Leadership and a PGD in Police Administration and Security Management, among other academic qualifications.
Seven commuters have reportedly lost their lives while three others sustained injuries in an auto crash at the Ogidi village axis along the Osogbo/Gbongan Road in Osun State.
The accident involved an ash colour Nissan Sharon car, with registration number: WWD57AE.
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According to witness account, the vehicle Driver, who was said to be traveling from Osogbo to Odeomu, was at high speed, lost control and fell into a ditch.
Confirming the incidence, the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps in Osun State, Corps Commander Henry Benamaisia said ten persons were involved in the accident.
Mr Benamaisia explained that the injured victims had been rushed to the Osun State University Teaching Hospital Osogbo, while the remains of the deceased had been deposited in the morgue at the hospital.
He said two bags containing clothes were recovered from the accident scene.
The FRSC boss, however, advised motorists to always drive carefully and obey all traffic rules to avoid road crashes that may lead to loss of lives and property.
A 21-day ultimatum has been issued to illegal traders on road setback along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, especially those at Kara, Isheri Warewa area of Ogun State to vacate.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, who gave the directive in a message to a meeting with community leaders at the palace of Olofin of Isheri, Oba Sulaiman Bamgbade in Isheri, said the step was part of government’s efforts at restoring environmental sanity to the axis.
Governor Abiodun represented by the Commissioner for Environment,
Mr Ola Oresanya, explained that shanties on axis would be demolished for a proper clean-up in preparation for beautification of those setback to complement the reconstruction of the expressway by the Federal Government.
The governor noted that his government took the decision to dislodge the street traders and demolish all the shanties to restore environmental sanity after several warnings, abatement notices and other entreaties for them to move to government approved markets failed.
He pointed out that place had become criminal hideouts for street urchins and drug peddlers, who allegedly robbed innocent citizens of their valuables in broad daylight.
Responding, Olofin of Isheri, Oba Sulaiman Bamgbade pledged the commitment of the residents to government’s efforts at ridding the axis of menace of street traders.
He noted that their shanties were not only posing environmental challenges but used by criminals to attack innocent residents of the area and other unsuspecting public.
The National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, has passed votes of no confidence on a former president of the union, Tajudeen Baruwa.
The National Chairman, NURTW Caretaker Committee, Tajudeen Agbede, said this while speaking at a news conference on Wednesday in Abuja.
It would be recalled that Baruwa’s tenure as the union’s president expired on August 28.
According to Agbede, “We, the undersigned, having the mandate of our members in the various states and zones unanimously passed a vote of no confidence on Alh. Tajudeen Baruwa.”
The caretaker committee chairman alleged that Baruwa had committed many atrocities while he served as the union’s president from August 2019 to August 2023.
He alleged that Baruwa had reduced membership of the union in the International Transport Federation from 400,000 members to a paltry 160,000 members.
Agbede also noted that the former president failed or neglected to pay affiliation dues when appropriate, thus causing the union to be deregistered from ITF.
“In a letter referenced NLC/NS/A.16 dated 27th August 2019, the NLC wrote to NURTW commending the union for showing a good example to other affiliate unions of the NLC.
“That is by continuing to be financially up to date” and for “being financially up to date as of the end of July 2019,” he said.
He, however, noted that sundry letters received from the Nigeria Labour Congress during Baruwa’s administration were various demands for payment of affiliation dues.
He added that the dues at one point, were owed for as long as 18 months, from April to December 2021 and January to September 2022.
Agbede said that Baruwa failed or neglected to account for Independence National Electoral Commission money paid during his administration for the 2023 general election.
He also noted that during the four-year administration of the former president of the union, the National Executive Council only held four times.
He said that this was against the constitutional provisions of Article 10 (2) of the union’s constitution.
Agbede also said Baruwa had arbitrarily mandated the posting of union staff without concomitant relocation allowances or transfer claims, among others.
He added that this caused unnecessary hardship and adversity to staff.
“He failed to abide by constitutional provisions in respect to succession, by refusing and/or neglecting to conduct credible zonal delegates elections for the continuity of the union.
“Thus putting the union into unnecessary drama before right-thinking members of the public,” he added.
It was reported that Baruwa was elected president for a second four-year term on August 25 in a unanimous decision.
The operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, have prevented another diesel fire explosion at Obadeyi before Ijaye along the Lagos-Abeokuta expressway.
According to a statement released on Thursday by the Agency’s Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, the tanker driver eloped after the tanker fell in the early hours of Thursday.
He said, “Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority have prevented another diesel fire explosion at Obadeyi before Ijaye along the Lagos-Abeokuta expressway.
“The tanker with registration number JJJ 596 XX, fully loaded with diesel products, fell around 6:10 am and had its contents spreading on the expressway.
Traffic Officer, Ajalekoko Bolade (Bravo 19, Abule-Egba), who led LASTMA rescue operations to the scene, confirmed that the driver of the tanker ran away immediately after the incident.”
Taofiq stated that scoopers were chased from the scene to avoid an imminent fire explosion, adding that Policemen from the Meiran Police Division also provided security backup at the scene.
“To prevent another imminent fire explosion, LASTMA, after arriving at the scene, immediately chased away scoopers and condoned off the entire vicinity.
“LASTMA personnel immediately called the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Services, including Lasema Response Unit and immediately secured the environment against area boys who had started scooping diesel with buckets/jerry cans.”
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the falling tanker fully loaded with diesel was coming from Abule-Egba going to Ijaye before the driver lost control due to a brake failure at Obadeyi.”
Taofiq also announced a traffic diversion at Hamadiya by both Hamadiya Hospital Way and those moving against those from the toll gate.
The Lagos State Government on Monday issued a seven-day ‘Vacation Order’ to motorists and commercial bus drivers operating on top of bridges across the state.
The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, said the ‘Vacation Order’ was based on the need to remove every infraction impeding free flow of traffic on bridges across State.
He said that despite several warnings, commercial bus drivers popularly known as ‘danfo drivers’ have continued to defy government order and causing serious obstructions around these bridges with great negative impacts on the integrity of the bridges and traffic.
The official said the government has constructed bus terminals and garages for commercial activities in the state.
“Every motorist/commercial bus driver operating along ‘Apongbon’ and ‘Idumota’ (Cater) Bridges, ‘Elegbata:, ‘Ebute-Ero’ and ‘Ejalonibu’ must as a matter of urgency vacate these areas as LASTMA would commence strict enforcement operation immediately after the expiration of this ultimatum until zero tolerance is achieved across the state,” Giwa said, according to a statement by a spokesman for the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) Adebayo Taofiq.
Giwa added that activities of these commercial bus drivers on bridges are contrary to provisions of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law 2018 as amended.
He said after the expiration of the ultimatum, violators would be charged to the Lagos State Mobile Court for prosecutions.
