News
Desist from Night Travel, Unsafe means of Transportation, FRSC Marshal Urges
Joel Ajayi
Following a tragic accident on the Lapai-Bida route in Niger State, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has called on stakeholders and the motoring public to caution Nigerians against night travel and reliance on unsafe transport methods
The accident, which occurred at 4:40 a.m. on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at Koriagi village, involved a tanker loaded with petroleum, resulting in the death of 37 people and injuries to 18 others.
According to the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, the crash involved four vehicles: a DAF tanker, two DAF trucks, and a Toyota car. The tanker, which was transporting petroleum motor spirit (PMS) from Lagos to Kano, exceeded the legal speed limit, causing the driver to lose control and crash, leading to a fiery explosion.
A second DAF truck, loaded with both passengers and livestock, also speeding, crashed into the burning tanker, followed by the Toyota and the third DAF truck, which failed to maintain a safe driving distance. All the vehicles involved were completely destroyed by the inferno.
The survivors have been taken to Lapai General Hospital and the Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida Specialist Hospital in Minna for medical treatment.
The FRSC Corps Marshal expressed deep concern over the increasing disregard for road safety, particularly at night, when many drivers engage in dangerous behaviors, such as speeding and using unsafe vehicles. Despite extensive efforts by the FRSC in partnership with transport unions, security agencies, and state traffic management agencies, many commuters continue to violate road safety rules.
Mohammed emphasized the need for the public to support FRSC’s efforts to curb dangerous road practices. He called on transport operators to adhere to safety regulations, avoid night travel, and ensure proper vehicle maintenance to prevent further tragedies on Nigeria’s roads.
The FRSC reiterated its commitment to ensuring road safety but stressed that individual responsibility and community support are crucial in preventing fatal accidents like this one.
Health
NGO seeks inclusivity, support for people with autism
The founder of the Sustainable Development for Africa Youth Initiative (SuDAYI), Victoria Jim, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), is advocating for greater inclusivity and support for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
Jim made the appeal on Thursday in Abuja during the unveiling of SuDAYI, emphasising the importance of collective efforts in creating a more inclusive society for individuals with autism and their families.
According to Jim, every individual with autism deserves access to quality education, healthcare, and social services that cater to their specific needs.
“Growing up in Africa, I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by individuals with autism and other disabilities.
“I saw how they were often marginalised, excluded, and denied access to basic rights and opportunities,” she said.
However, Jim also highlighted the potential, talent, and resilience of individuals with autism, noting that with the right support, resources, and opportunities, they could achieve greatness.
Jim stated that SuDAYI was committed to bridging the gap in autism services and support in Nigeria.
“In the next two years, the NGO plans to implement a comprehensive autism management intervention.
“This intervention will focus on providing inclusive education and support to families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
“Additionally, SuDAYI aims to establish partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and community leaders to promote autism awareness and acceptance.”
Rep. Bashiru Dawodu, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Disability Matters, spoke about ongoing efforts to amend the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Prohibition Act 2018.
He noted that the current law did not adequately address the needs of children and women with disabilities.
“We think those areas are specific areas that need to be addressed, including intellectual disabilities and developmental needs for children with cerebral palsy or neurodegenerative conditions,” Dawodu said.
He also emphasised that discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) was punishable under the law.
Dr Opiti Chukwunekwu, Associate Director at Health System Consult Limited, discussed the prevalence of autism in Nigeria, which was estimated at 2.1 per cent.
He clarified that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was not a disease but a developmental disorder that occurred during a child’s development in the womb.
Chukwunekwu explained that autism was a spectrum, with different manifestations across its five elements.
He emphasised the importance of supporting individuals with autism to develop skills and reach their potential.
“Many prominent people have been shown to have traits of autism and still went on to achieve great things,” he said.
Chukwunekwu also stressed that while there was no cure for autism, effective management focused on empowering individuals with the disorder.
“This includes behavioral interventions, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills training, all aimed at improving outcomes for those living with autism.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that SuDAYI’s objective is to empower children and youth with autism and other disabilities, enabling them to participate fully in and contribute to their communities.
(NAN)
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