By CHRISTIAN NJOKU

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on Thursday intensified its festive period patrols in Cross River by testing drivers for alcohol and drugs at Odukpani Junction, a major gateway into Calabar.

The Cross River Sector Commander, Mr Innocent Etuk, disclosed this during an exercise to inspect the Corps’ electronic metro counting equipment for tracking traffic volume, speed and vehicle categories throughout the festive season.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Corps also distributed bottled water to motorists embarking on journeys out of Calabar.

According to Etuk, drivers were subjected to breath tests to detect alcohol or drug influence, which could impair judgement and increase the risk of crashes.

He warned that drivers found to be under the influence would be stopped, replaced by fleet operators where applicable, or sanctioned to prevent road crashes.

Etuk said data from the electronic metro counting equipment would guide deployment, risk assessment and escalation decisions, considering traffic volume, vehicle categories and truck weights of vehicles entering Calabar during the festive season.

“While we are using this opportunity to test drivers for alcohol and drugs and inspect our electronic metro counting machine, we are also distributing water to travellers.

“We are also distributing flyers to motorists as part of our corporate social responsibility during the festive season,” he said.

Etuk added that FRSC was committed to safer roads and urged motorists to take responsibility for safety by complying with traffic regulations during the festive period.

On his part, a driver, Mr Joseph Edem, commended the FRSC for its efforts to ensure safer roads for motorists and pedestrians.

Edem, who underwent a breath test and was cleared to continue his trip, urged Nigerians to comply with FRSC rules and regulations to enhance safety on the nation’s roads.

Similarly, a passenger, Mr Thompson Nberedem, described the gesture by the FRSC as impressive and laudable.

“The officers of the Corps distributed water to us and were very civil and friendly in their interaction with us. I believe every Nigerian should comply with the Corps’ mandate.

“Checking for alcohol and drugs in the system of our drivers is very important, especially during the festive season when many drivers drive without full consciousness of the dangers involved,” he said. (NAN)

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