Calls To Senior Officers Won’t Save One-Way Offenders, Police Warn

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has warned motorists caught driving against traffic that contacting senior police officers, government officials or influential personalities will not shield them from arrest and prosecution.

The Command said no motorist, regardless of social status, position or connections, would be exempted from punishment for violating traffic regulations, particularly driving against traffic, popularly known as one-way.

The warning was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh.

The police expressed concern over the increasing disregard for traffic regulations by motorists who deliberately drive against traffic, ignore road signs and bypass designated diversions to avoid congestion.

It noted that the practice was particularly common around road construction sites, diversion points and other locations where traffic movement had been restricted.

The Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Muhammad Sanusi, has consequently directed the Command’s Motor Traffic Department (MOTOPOL) and Divisional Traffic Officers to intensify enforcement operations in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps and other relevant agencies.

According to the statement, motorists found driving against traffic or disobeying lawful traffic instructions will be arrested and prosecuted immediately.

The police commissioner also warned officers deployed for the enforcement exercise against exploiting motorists through extortion.

Sanusi cautioned that officers found engaging in such misconduct would face disciplinary action in accordance with police rules and regulations.

The Command urged motorists to exercise patience, obey traffic signs and follow instructions from authorised traffic officers, warning that reckless driving to save a few minutes could result in loss of lives and destruction of property.

It also encouraged residents to report suspicious persons and activities to the nearest police station or through its emergency telephone lines: 08032003913 and 08061581938.