FRSC Vows Crackdown on Helmet Defaulters in Oyo, Targets Safer Streets for Pedestrians and Cyclists

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Oyo State Command, has pledged to intensify enforcement of helmet use among motorcyclists and their passengers, as part of efforts to improve road safety in the state.

Speaking at a news conference on Monday in Ibadan to mark the 8th United Nations Global Road Safety Week, the Sector Commander, Mrs. Rosemary Alo, said the command would deploy its full operational capacity to ensure compliance.

The global safety week, which runs from May 12 to May 18, is aimed at encouraging governments and communities to make walking and cycling safer. This year’s theme is “Streets for Life: #Make Walking Safe, Make Cycling Safe.”

Alo said the campaign focuses on practical actions that stakeholders — including government agencies, civil society, businesses and schools — can take to protect vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.

“Pedestrians, especially the elderly and street children often involved in commercial activities on roadsides, are particularly vulnerable to injuries from traffic,” she noted.

She warned that poor infrastructure and unsafe road conditions continue to put these groups at heightened risk, adding that the use of protective gear, such as helmets, is critical in mitigating injury severity.

“Motorcyclists in the same way, as pedestrians, are still a significant road user group that faces high risks of injury,” she said. “The use of a helmet reduces damage to sensitive parts of the body, including eyes, skull, brain and nose.”

Alo reiterated the commitment of the command under her leadership to promoting a culture of safety and reducing road traffic crashes in the state.

“As Oyo sector commander, I am proud to lead efforts that prioritise the safety of our road users. The command remains committed to reducing road crashes and promoting a culture of safety on our roads,” she stated.

Activities scheduled for the week-long event include a sensitisation rally, distribution of flyers, media awareness campaigns, school safety talks, visits to fleet operators and orphanages, as well as commemorative church and mosque services.

“These initiatives aim to educate and remind road users of their roles in preventing road crashes. We urge all stakeholders, including motorists, pedestrians and cyclists to join us in this crusade.

“Together, we can make our roads safer and reduce the incidence of road crashes, especially those involving pedestrians and cyclists,” Alo added.