Metro
Guran Malam Crash: FRSC Boss Harps on Re-fleeting, Routine Maintenance
Following a tragic lone crash that claimed twelve (12) lives at Samawa Village, Garun Malam Local Government Area of Kano State, along the Zaria–Kano Highwayon Friday, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has again advised transport owners to prioritise periodic fleet renewal and proper vehicle maintenance.
The accident, according to a statement made available to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), involved a DAF Trailer with registration number KMC 931 ZE, and loaded with goods (Ajinomoto spices) and passengers.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the incident was caused by a mechanical fault as the trailer’s cab hook broke, causing the cab to detach from the trailer body and resulting in loss of control.
Out of 19 persons involved in the crash, 12 were killed, 5 sustained injuries and 2 were rescued unhurt.
The statement noted that the deceased have since been deposited at the Nasarawa Hospital Mortuary, while the injured are receiving treatment at Kura General Hospital.
In his reaction, the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, described the tragedy as avoidable, and urged transport operators to phase out old, mechanically unsafe vehicles from their fleets. He warned against the dangerous practice of loading goods, animals, and passengers in the same vehicle, stressing that such violations would attract stiffer sanctions going forward.
While commiserating with the families of the deceased, the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, mni, reiterated the Corps’ commitment to intensifying enforcement on speed violations, overloading, and poor vehicle maintenance, particularly among truck operators. He emphasized that the recurring loss of lives from preventable crashes underscores the urgent need for haulage companies to adopt modern fleet renewal practices and adhere to safety regulations.
The FRSC reiterates that safety on Nigeria’s roads is a shared responsibility and calls on all stakeholders to work together to end preventable road crashes.
The Lagos State Security Trust Fund has intensified support for community-based security with the donation of 100 anti-riot kits and 1,000 pairs of operational boots to the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency.
The high quality modern equipment was presented on behalf of the Executive Secretary/CEO, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, by the Director of Administration, Mr. Adegbola Lewis, to the General Manager of LNSA, Dr. Ifalade Oyekan, at the Agency’s headquarters in Oshodi.
The Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Agency plays a critical role in grassroots security as they support the police through intelligence gathering, routine patrols, and community policing initiatives across all local government areas in the state. The Corps is also tasked with maintaining law and order, detecting suspicious activities, and fostering safety awareness within communities.
The intervention is expected to further strengthen neighbourhood-level security architecture and deepen collaboration between communities and formal law enforcement agencies in State.
The Federal government has declared Friday, May 1, a public holiday to commemorate this year’s International Workers’ Day.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement on behalf of the government.
In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Magdalene Ajani, the minister congratulated workers nationwide, commending their commitment and contributions to national development.
He noted that the dedication of Nigerian workers remains vital to the country’s growth and economic progress, urging them to sustain values of patriotism, productivity and diligence.
Tunji-Ojo also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare, enhancing security and creating an enabling environment for economic expansion.
He called on Nigerians to remain peaceful and law-abiding during the celebration, encouraging citizens to reflect on the importance of unity and hard work in nation-building.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has expressed concern over the rising pressure on workers’ welfare and economic conditions of the country.
The Congress warned that it would embark on nationwide protest, if there is no improvement.
The warning was conveyed in in a communiqué jointly signed by the TUC President, Mr. Festus Osifo, and Secretary-General, Mr. Nuhu Toro, at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja.
The Congress said the NEC meeting reviewed the state of the nation, developments within the congress, preparations for the 2026 May Day celebration, and other critical issues affecting Nigerian workers.
“The prevailing economic hardship has significantly affected the living standards of Nigerian workers, making daily survival increasingly difficult.
“We are closely monitoring the situation, and if there is no improvement, the congress will have no option but to mobilise workers in defence of their welfare.
“Government must urgently take concrete steps to address the rising cost of living and restore confidence in the economy,” it said.
The Congress said rising fuel prices, inflation, electricity tariff increases and insecurity had combined to erode workers’ purchasing power and living standards.
It noted that global developments, including the Iran–U.S. conflict, were further worsening economic pressures through higher energy costs and supply chain disruptions.
According to the TUC, Nigerian workers have not benefited from higher global oil prices but continue to face rising costs of transportation, food and essential services.
It urged the Federal Government to deploy excess crude revenue to cushion economic shocks and support vulnerable citizens.
The congress also called for urgent measures to stabilise fuel prices, improve electricity supply, and address insecurity nationwide.
It emphasised the need for policies that promote decent work, job security and social protection.
“The government must prioritise the welfare, dignity and security of Nigerian workers in all policy decisions,” it said.
The TUC further called for tax relief for manufacturing companies and workers to ease economic pressure and stimulate productivity.
On electricity, it condemned repeated tariff increases without improved service delivery and demanded fair pricing, universal metering, and an end to estimated billing.
The congress expressed concern over rising insecurity, describing it as a major threat to economic activities and workers’ safety.
It urged government at all levels to adopt coordinated, intelligence-driven strategies to protect lives, farms, businesses and critical infrastructure.
“A stitch in time saves nine,” the communiqué added.
