Date: 2020-08-20

The Kwara command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has warned that commercial vehicle operators who carry more than the specified number of passengers risk three months imprisonment and or a fine of N10,000.

Jonathan Owoade, the sector commander, disclosed this in an interview with NAN in Ilorin, the Kwara capital, on Thursday.

Owoade warned fleet operators, commuters and road users to adhere strictly to the COVID-19 safety protocols on physical distancing.

He urged transport unions and stakeholders not to undermine the safety protocols in order to prevent further spread of the coronavirus.

"Any commercial vehicle operator that carries more than the specified number of passengers as directed by the government has overloaded his vehicle and risks being punished under the law," he said.

"All drivers should desist from overloading vehicles and ensure all their passengers use nose masks.

"Before the implementation of the punishment, we have done a lot of public enlightenment and sensitisation at various motor parks within the state, and with the various transport union executives.

"We are also monitoring to ensure adherence to COVID-19 guidelines. Any driver found guilty of overloading will be fined the sum of N10,000 and/or three months imprisonment.

"Transport unions, motor parks and fleet operators should ensure that clean water, soap, hand washing basin and sanitisers are all available at their parks."

The sector commander, who said about 70 percent of drivers have complied with the guidelines, warned that anyone found guilty would face the law.

He added that the corps is commitment to securing lives and properties on the roads.

"FRSC will not compromise enforcement of safety protocols that will contain the spread of the coronavirus through road transport," Owoade said.

"I, therefore, enjoin transport unions, stakeholders and the motoring community to support the FRSC and the government towards ensuring an end to the pandemic."