Sultan warns against drunk driving, over loading, speeding

From Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto

The Sultan of Sokoto and President General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar 111 has appealed to Nigerians especially road users to avoid drunk driving, over loading, reckless driving as well as mixed loading.
These, according to the Sultan were the reasons for most road traffick crashes that are avoidable.
Speaking in his Sokoto palace during a courtesy visit by Zonal Commanding Officer, RS10HQ Sokoto, Assistant Corps Marshal ACM Shoba Akande, the Sultan appealed to the Corps to intensify enforcement against traffic violations to help reduce crashes.
“Drunk driving, mixed loading, overloading and reckless driving offences remain prevalent and contribute significantly to road traffic crashes, fatalities and injuries on Nigerian highways”, Sultan noted.
While appreciating the Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed and the entire FRSC for the remarkable achievements recorded thus far in the enforcement of road usage violation, the Sultan admonished them to remain steadfast in their commitment to road safety despite the numerous challenges.
Sultan, the respected religious cum traditional leader further expressed concern over incidents where some recalcitrant drivers attack and knock down FRSC personnel while carrying out their lawful duties, saying such actions are not just inhumane but also criminal.
He also pledged sustained relationship with FRSC and every other agency that is dedicated to the well-being of humanity.
Speaking earlier, the Zonal Commanding Officer, RS10HQ Sokoto, Assistant Corps Marshal ACM Shoba Akande, said his visit was aimed at paying homage and formally introducing himself to the Sultan as the 24th Zonal Commanding Officer of RS10HQ, comprising Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara States.
Akande described the Sultan as a revered traditional ruler, father figure and highly respected leader whose influence transcends Nigeria’s borders, hence coming to seek his prayers, guidance and support in the discharge of his responsibilities as the Zonal Commanding Officer.
Akande further conveyed the warm greetings and best wishes of the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed to the Sultan and the people of Sokoto Caliphate.
During the visit the Zonal Commanding Officer presented an Award of memory to the Sultan; and was accompanied on the visit by the Sector Commander, Sokoto Sector Command, Corps Commander Umar Adamu Argungu; the Zonal Head of Operations, Corps Commander A.Y. Rafi; the Zonal and State Coordinators of Special Marshals; as well as other principal officers from both the Zonal Headquarters and Sokoto Sector Command.