The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, in response to the alarming rise in truck-related accidents in the state, has announced a series of proactive measures aimed at enhancing road safety.
During a critical meeting held on Wednesday at the State Police Headquarters in Awka, CP Orutugu engaged with representatives from the Truck Union to discuss the urgent need for stricter safety protocols for truck drivers and owners.
The meeting follows a tragic accident that occurred on March 15, 2025, at the Upper Iweka axis of Onitsha, where a truck lost control and collided with pedestrians, two tricycles, and a commercial bus, resulting in the loss of six lives and leaving numerous others injured.
CP Orutugu described the catastrophic event as both regrettable and preventable, stressing the importance of enforcing robust safety measures to avert future occurrences.
He emphasized the imperative of direct collaboration between the police, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and other relevant agencies to implement enforceable safety guidelines for truck operators.
“It has become necessary to engage truck drivers and owners directly to ensure their adherence to regulations that protect the lives of all road users in the state,” CP Orutugu stated.
Key strategies discussed at the meeting included:
Conducting Risk Assessments: Identifying potential hazards on the roads and taking appropriate measures to mitigate them.
Regular Vehicle Inspections: Ensuring that all trucks are maintained in optimal working condition to prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures.
Providing Safety Training: Educating drivers on responsible driving practices and the critical importance of complying with traffic regulations.
CP Orutugu reiterated the police command’s commitment to creating safer roads in Anambra, highlighting that road safety is a shared responsibility among all users.
He called on truck operators to strictly adhere to the established safety guidelines and prioritize caution while driving.
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