The President of the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG), Comrade Dominic Ogakwu, has called on the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) to include the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and other critical stakeholders as members of the FRSC Board.
Comrade Ogakwu made this appeal during a public hearing in Abuja on a bill to amend the FRSC Act 2007. The proposed amendment seeks to empower the commission with enhanced responsibilities for road traffic administration and safety management.
Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of an FRSC Special Armed Squad and ensuring that personnel at the rank of Deputy Corps Marshal receive benefits commensurate with their rank, including retirement packages.
CSONews24 reports that the bill has already passed its second reading in the House of Representatives, with members of the public submitting recommendations expected to yield positive outcomes.
“It is imperative to include NARTO on the FRSC Board due to the strategic roles they play in the transportation sector across the country,” said Comrade Ogakwu.
He further noted that several coalitions of civil society organizations recognize the importance of equipping FRSC personnel with the necessary tools and legal backing to enable them to discharge their duties effectively, free from harassment.
“When FRSC personnel are properly empowered, their contributions to national development, nation-building, and security will be more evident,” Comrade Ogakwu remarked.
Several stakeholders voiced their support for the bill during the hearing. Hon. Abiodun D. Adesida, Chairman of the House Committee on the FRSC, assured the public that all recommendations submitted would be thoroughly reviewed and deliberated upon in the House chambers.
If enacted, the bill will empower the FRSC to supervise public road users, regulate traffic, and clear obstructions to prevent and minimize road traffic crashes; mandate the commission to educate drivers, motorists, and the public on the proper use of public roads; and establish a special armed squad to protect FRSC personnel and ensure the safety of their facilities nationwide.
The public hearing brought together representatives from civil society organizations, the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the National Association of Commercial Motorcycle and Tricycle Riders, NARTO, and other stakeholders.
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