By Chinenye Jane Anaeme
As heavy rains continue to drench parts of the country, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued a strong advisory to motorists, urging them to adopt critical safety precautions while driving in wet conditions.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on behalf of the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, the Assistant Corps Marshal and Corps Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, emphasized the dangers associated with driving during the rainy season, warning that poor visibility, slippery roads, and mechanical faults often combine to cause serious road crashes.
“Driving in the rain can be extremely risky. Your visibility is compromised, and the road becomes a hazard on its own,” Ogungbemide stated. “We are urging motorists to take this season seriously and apply every necessary precaution to protect their lives and that of other road users.”
Ogungbemide outlined a series of safety checks drivers are advised to carry out before setting out on any journey during the rainy season. These include cleaning windshields and windows both inside and outside,ensuring headlights, brake lights, tail lights, and turn signals are in proper working condition, and most importantly, confirming that windshield wipers are functional.
“The practice of using towels or rags in place of faulty wipers is completely unacceptable. This kind of improvisation can prove deadly when visibility drops unexpectedly,” he warned.
He further advised that vehicle lights should remain on even during daytime showers to improve visibility for both the driver and other road users. Motorists are also encouraged to lower their speed significantly and adhere to what he described as the “common sense speed limit”slowing down enough to match the road conditions rather than the official speed signs.
Tyre condition was another point of emphasis.
“Your tyres are the only part of your vehicle in contact with the road. If they are worn out, you have no grip, and you’re courting disaster,” Ogungbemide stated.
In response to the seasonal risks, the Corps Marshal has reportedly directed all Commanding Officers nationwide to intensify public sensitization efforts, particularly on the use of functional wipers and quality tyres. Traffic calming operations and stricter enforcement of roadworthiness checks will also be heightened in the coming weeks.
Ogungbemide concluded with a word of caution to drivers who lack the experience or confidence to navigate under special weather conditions.
“If you cannot drive safely when it’s raining, it is better to delay your journey. Your safety and the safety of others should always come first,” he said.
The FRSC continues to appeal to all Nigerians to remain vigilant and responsible on the roads as the nation experiences more rainfall in the weeks ahead.
