FRSC Seeks Partnership with Bonny FM to Boost Safety Awareness Amid Rising Road Traffic on Bonny Island

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Bonny Local Government Area has called for stronger collaboration with the media to enhance road safety awareness following an increase in traffic volume linked to the opening of the Bodo-Bonny Road.

The Unit Commander of the FRSC in Bonny, Chief Route Commander Michael John, made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the management of Bonny FM, where discussions centred on promoting safer road use through public education and enlightenment programmes.

Speaking during the visit, John said the opening of the road connecting Bonny Island to the mainland has brought increased vehicular movement to the area, making road safety education more critical than ever.

According to the FRSC commander, the command has recorded several road crashes within the past two months, many of which were caused by speeding, dangerous overtaking, and disregard for traffic regulations.

He noted that while the road connection has improved accessibility to Bonny, some motorists appear unfamiliar with basic road safety practices, creating new challenges for traffic management authorities.

"We have seen an influx of a lot of persons, and these persons make use of the road. And so far, within the two months of my being here, we have recorded crashes that actually require us to get the listening public through your medium to educate and talk more to people," John said.

He cited recent incidents in which motorists attempted to overtake on bridges and exceeded speed limits, actions he described as serious violations that could easily result in fatalities.

"The road we have here is just a single carriageway, it’s not a dual carriageway, it is not an expressway. But you’ve seen people who actually drive as if they are on an expressway. The highest any vehicle should go on that road is 80 kilometres per hour and that is where the condition and situation allows for it." he explained.

John stressed that public enlightenment remains one of the FRSC's core responsibilities and said radio remains one of the most effective channels for reaching large audiences.

Drawing from his experience as a former Public Education Officer in Rivers State, he noted that sustained media campaigns have played a significant role in reducing road crashes in other parts of the state.

He therefore called for a structured partnership with Bonny FM to educate motorists, commercial drivers, motorcyclists, and other road users on traffic rules and safe driving practices.

The commander also welcomed public scrutiny of the FRSC's activities, stating that transparency and accountability are essential for effective enforcement.

"If you are to enforce the rule, then you must keep the rule, and you must be seen to do it as is expected," he added.

Responding, the management of Bonny FM welcomed the proposal and expressed readiness to collaborate with the FRSC through public service announcements, educational segments, and regular discussions on road safety issues.

The station's management acknowledged the growing importance of road safety awareness following the opening of the Bodo-Bonny Road and noted that radio has a responsibility to inform and educate the public.

While highlighting the operational realities of running a commercial radio station, the management suggested exploring partnerships with corporate organisations and other stakeholders to support a dedicated road safety programme.