Ondo FRSC concerned as road crashes claim 53 lives in first quarter of 2025

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ondo State has voiced deep concern over a surge in road traffic incidents, reporting that 94 crashes led to 53 fatalities and 244 injuries in the first three months of 2025.

This was revealed by the State Sector Commander, Dr. Samuel Ibitoye, during the 8th United Nations Road Safety Week held in Akure. The event was themed “Streets for Life – #MakeWalkingSafe #MakeCyclingSafe.”

Dr. Ibitoye noted that the current figures show a significant increase compared to the same period in 2024, which recorded 74 crashes, 33 deaths, and 237 injuries. Among those killed in 2025 were 39 men, 13 women, and one girl.

He attributed the spike in accidents to reckless driving habits such as speeding, fatigue, overloading, poor vehicle maintenance, bad road conditions, and general nonchalance among road users.

“These numbers are troubling and demand urgent attention. Everyone involved in road use and infrastructure—from the government to private road users—must rethink their actions and adopt safer practices,” Ibitoye said.

He urged all road users to embrace better habits to prevent avoidable tragedies and called on commercial drivers in particular to avoid speeding, driving under the influence, and aggressive behavior on the road.

Ibitoye also acknowledged the proactive steps taken by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to enhance road safety and mobility within the state. He further appealed to construction firms working on public roads to integrate pedestrian and bicycle-friendly infrastructure, saying such features would support safer transportation and healthier living while reducing emissions.

Representatives of transport unions also spoke at the event. Mr. Kareem Tajudeen of the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) and Mr. Adeniyi Oyedapo of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) both praised FRSC’s efforts and affirmed their continued education of members on safe driving and vehicle maintenance.

- Advertisement -
Exit mobile version