Over 250 commercial drivers have been arrested in the Federal Capital Territory for disobeying a directive that allows only one passenger in the front seat of taxis, according to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
FCT Sector Commander, Corps Commander Felix Theman, revealed this in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Education Officer, Helen Ntaji, on Saturday in Abuja.
The arrests occurred within the first two days of a new enforcement drive launched by the FRSC FCT Command on October 2. The campaign aims to tackle overloading in commercial vehicles and reinforce adherence to road safety standards.
Theman described the operation as a crucial move to protect passengers’ safety and uphold their dignity on the roads.
“One of my key priorities upon assumption of office was the restoration of passenger dignity and safety through strict adherence to road safety laws.
“Enforcement is the most civil and effective means to ensure that safety is not compromised for convenience.
“In the first two days of the operation, over 250 commercial vehicles and drivers were apprehended for violating the directive mandating only one passenger in the front seat of taxis – in accordance with vehicle design specifications,” Theman stated.
The FRSC noted that overloading — especially placing two passengers in the front seat — makes it impossible for seatbelts to be used properly and compromises overall vehicle safety.
The man warned that such practices not only endanger lives but also put additional stress on tyres and suspension systems and reduce driver control, particularly in emergencies.
“The overloading of passengers and goods not only endangers lives by making seatbelt use impossible.
“But also places undue stress on vehicle tyres and suspension systems. Additionally, it impairs the driver’s ability to control the vehicle effectively, especially in emergency situations,” he explained.
To prepare for the crackdown, the Command held months of consultations with transport unions and stakeholders across the FCT.
According to the FRSC, the unions have expressed full support for the operation and pledged to promote safer driving practices among their members.
The enforcement is being carried out in conjunction with mobile magistrate courts, which allow for the on-the-spot prosecution of offenders.
Theman also used the opportunity to warn commercial drivers operating unsafe vehicles to either upgrade their vehicles or risk having them impounded.
“Passengers and commuters must support the FRSC’s efforts to uphold their rights to safe and dignified transportation.
“All commercial drivers operating vehicles that fall below minimum safety standards must upgrade their vehicles or risk immediate impoundment,” he said.
The FRSC said full activation of mobile court locations across the FCT will begin on Monday, October 6, to intensify the enforcement and bring greater order to the city’s transport system.
