The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has said that equipping road safety personnel with firearms may be necessary to ensure effective enforcement of traffic regulations on Nigeria’s highways.
Speaking on Arise News on Thursday, Mohammed described the dangers his operatives face, particularly when attempting to stop large trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles.
“How do you stop a trailer or tanker on the road?” he asked. “A team of four officers trying to halt a truck carrying scores of passengers or animals is in a very difficult position.”
According to him, without adequate enforcement tools or “power of cohesion,” road safety officers cannot carry out their duties effectively.
Mohammed also addressed persistent reports of bribery and extortion involving some FRSC officials, which frequently circulate on social media. He admitted that the problem exists but stressed that the agency has taken strong disciplinary measures.
“We have recorded more cases of dismissal and termination of staff over bribery and corruption than many other agencies,” he said, noting that the Corps operates under a strict standard procedure to curb misconduct.
On the issue of driver’s licence fees, Mohammed clarified the official charges amid public complaints of inflated costs.
“For three years, the fee is ₦15,000, while five years costs ₦21,000,” he said.
He apologised to Nigerians for delays in processing licences and promised an improved system. “By the first or second week of October, an enhanced driver’s licence and better service delivery will be in place,” he assured.
Calls for an armed road safety unit are not new. In October 2024, the House of Representatives passed a bill for the creation of an “Armed Road Safety Corps” — a specialised unit under the FRSC with powers to carry weapons and enforce traffic laws more forcefully.
Supporters of the bill argue that better-equipped personnel would be able to tackle reckless driving and reduce road crashes, especially on major highways. However, critics warn that arming FRSC officials could lead to abuse, intimidation, and further militarisation of road policing.
A PUNCH Online poll in October 2024 showed that more than 90 per cent of respondents opposed the proposal, with transport unions and civil society groups also rejecting it.
Despite the controversy, Mohammed said the FRSC will continue to push for tools that make its operations safer and more effective. “We will keep delivering on our mandate as provided in the FRSC Act,” he said.
