Considering the increasing security threats across the nation, the Federal Road Safety Corps has suggested that its personnel should be equipped with firearms to discharge their duties effectively.
The Corps Marshal, Mr. Dauda Biu, disclosed this on Saturday during the formal inauguration of 1,762 corps members. These individuals had recently completed a comprehensive four-month basic training program at the Nigerian Army Training Centre located in Kontagora, Niger.
Biu, represented by Deputy Corps Marshal Shehu Zaki, stressed the importance of this action in providing enhanced protection for personnel who encounter frequent attacks during their duty assignments. These attacks often come from either road users or suspected criminals exploiting the prevailing security challenges in the country.
‘It is left to the political leaders to arm the FRSC, but what we do know is that the issue of the FRSC bearing arms has been on our status since 1992.’
‘What we are still waiting for is for us to be given the go-ahead to start using arms.’
‘Right now, looking at the level of insecurity in the country, it is not out of place for the FRSC to start using arms to enable us to protect ourselves when the need arises,’ Biu said.
However, he urged the cadet officers, cadet marshal assistants, and road marshal assistants to wholeheartedly commit themselves to their roles, with the aim of bringing prestige to both the corps and the country.
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The corps marshal urged the personnel to embody patriotism and exemplify the highest levels of discipline, honour, integrity, accountability, transparency, courtesy, confidentiality, decency, loyalty, and team spirit in the discharge of their duties, thereby contributing to the attainment of success.
Biu said, ‘As we tackle the challenges of nation-building and sustainable development in a complex operational environment, where you will soon face reality.’
‘It has therefore become imperative that I sound a very strong caution which is aimed at protecting and preserving your lives in the cause of discharging your duties objectively.’
‘You must constantly abide by the regulations which guide the work ethics as you carry out your constitutional roles.’
‘Without this, you will be doing a lot of damage to yourself, the corps and the nation as a whole.’
He expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja for authorizing the use of the training facility and also commended the army trainers for their contribution in ensuring a successful exercise.
Previously, the Camp Commander, Mr. Yakubu Muhammad, noted that among the commissioned personnel were 204 cadet Officers, 402 cadet marshal inspectors and 1,156 road marshal assistants.
Muhammad reported that during the extensive four-month training period, the cadets and other trainees underwent instruction in road safety management, participated in physical drills, and were educated on regimental ethics.
Furthermore, he explained that the corps had recently integrated martial arts into their training curriculum, equipping their personnel with self-defense skills for use in the line of duty as needed.
‘This is because we have not been authorised to carry firearms, so we should be able to defend ourselves when the need arise,’ Muhammad said.
General Parade Commander Cadet Chime Martin, speaking on behalf of the commissioned cadets and other trainees, made a commitment to apply the knowledge they have acquired to foster a secure motoring environment within the country.