By Divine Sam
Residents of Anambra State are expressing deep concern over the alarming frequency of road accidents, attributing blame to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Anambra State Road Traffic Maintenance Agency (ARTMA). The latter has been criticized for its aggressive enforcement of traffic laws, which some argue contributes to dangerous driving conditions.
Recent tragedies highlight these concerns. A young lawyer, identified as Okechukwu, tragically lost his life after colliding with an abandoned truck on the Awka-Enugu Expressway. He had just buried his mother and was returning home when the accident occurred. His vehicle struck the stationary truck, causing it to veer into a nearby drainage.
Family members described the incident as entirely preventable, criticizing the lack of timely removal of broken-down vehicles and the absence of warning signs. A kinsman lamented the unpredictability of life and the importance of vigilance on the roads.
Local residents, including journalist Jude Atupulazi, have publicly condemned the negligence of traffic officials, who allow abandoned vehicles to obstruct highways for extended periods without intervention. Another resident, Chukwuma Nwaeze, suggested that ARTMA bears greater responsibility due to its direct mandate to protect the public.
In response, Joyce Alexander, the FRSC Sector Commander, acknowledged the challenges faced by the agency, citing limitations in their ability to monitor all roadways simultaneously. She urged community involvement in reporting hazards and expressed condolences to Okechukwu’s family. Despite her assurances of efforts to manage road safety, many residents remain skeptical about the effectiveness of current strategies and call for immediate reforms to prevent further tragedies.