By: Manoah Kikekon
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| FRSC officers on highway |
BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Badagry Unit Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has broken its silence on a widely circulated incident involving a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, clarifying that the arrest was a routine enforcement of traffic law and not an act of victimization or extorsion.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday along the bustling Mowo corridor of the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, had been the subject of intense online speculation, as the victim alleges unfair treatment.
According to an official statement from the Command, the corps member in question was stopped and booked for a clear violation of the highway code: riding a motorcycle without a safety helmet.
The FRSC emphasized that this regulation is a fundamental safety measure designed to protect all road users, and its enforcement is mandatory for operatives. The clarification aims to dispel rumours that the arrest was made without due cause or was targeted specifically at the individual because of his NYSC status.
In an exclusive conversation, the Badagry Unit Commander, Sani Yusuf, provided further context. He stated that it was unclear whether the corps member had even identified himself before the booking process began.
Commander Yusuf was unequivocal in his stance, asserting, "Even if he had identified himself as a corps member, the law is clear. Once a traffic law or highway code is violated, the offender will be arrested. The NYSC scheme encourages patriotism and lawfulness, and its members are expected to be exemplars of this." He firmly separated the individual's identity from the nature of the offence, reinforcing the principle that the law applies equally to all citizens.
Addressing allegations of on-the-spot extortion, the Unit Commander was equally firm, stating that the fine was not collected by officers in cash. "The money was not collected from him directly; he paid it into the government purse, and we have clear evidence of this transaction," Yusuf explained.
He used the opportunity to remind the public, especially residents of Badagry, that the arrest of traffic violators is a standard and continuous exercise. The FRSC advises all motorists, including car drivers and motorcycle riders, to take all necessary precautions and adhere strictly to established traffic laws to ensure their safety and avoid penalties.