The Ondo State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has expressed concern over the rising number of fatalities from road accidents, revealing that 94 crashes in the first quarter of 2025 resulted in 53 deaths and 244 injuries.
State Sector Commander, Dr. Samuel Ibitoye, made this known during the 8th United Nations Road Safety Week held in Akure.
The event, themed “Streets for Life – #MakeWalkingSafe #MakeCyclingSafe,” aimed to promote safer mobility for all road users.
According to Ibitoye, the number of incidents and casualties recorded in early 2025 reflects an increase compared to the first quarter of 2024, which saw 74 crashes, 33 deaths, and 237 injuries.
Among those who lost their lives this year were 39 adult males, 13 adult females, and a young girl.
He attributed the disturbing figures to excessive speeding, reckless driving, overloading, fatigue, poor road conditions, and lack of proper vehicle maintenance.
“These troubling statistics highlight the urgent need for change,” Ibitoye said. “All stakeholders—drivers, policymakers, engineers, and civil society groups—must work together to improve road safety and reduce avoidable deaths.”
He urged drivers and other road users to embrace responsible behavior, especially avoiding drunk driving, road rage, and speeding.
He also praised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s efforts in improving road infrastructure and mobility across the state.
The commander called on contractors handling road construction projects to consider pedestrian and cycling infrastructure in their designs.
He explained that incorporating such features would support eco-friendly transport options, reduce congestion, and promote public health.
Also speaking at the event, Deputy Secretary of the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Mr. Kareem Tajudeen, and the Vice Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Mr. Adeniyi Oyedapo, commended FRSC’s commitment to road safety.
They stated that their unions have been actively educating members on responsible driving and regular vehicle checks to prevent crashes.
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