FRSC Nabs Overloaded Vehicle in Bauchi, Warns Against ‘Deadly’ Practice

FRSC Nabs Overloaded Vehicle in Bauchi, Warns Against ‘Deadly’ Practice

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has intercepted a dangerously overloaded vehicle along the Bauchi–Kari route, raising fresh concerns over unsafe transport practices on Nigerian roads.

The Corps Public Education Officer, Osondu Ohaeri, disclosed on Monday that the vehicle was apprehended by the RS12.12 Darazo Unit Command during routine patrol.

According to the FRSC, the vehicle was carrying goods far beyond its capacity, with passengers seen sitting on top of piled items—completely exposed and at high risk in the event of an accident.

“This is a gross violation of safety regulations. Passengers were sitting on top of loaded goods, exposed to fatal risks in the event of a crash, sudden braking or loss of control,” the statement said.

The corps warned that overloading remains one of the most dangerous practices on highways, noting that it significantly affects vehicle balance and increases the likelihood of crashes.

“Overloading is not just a traffic offence; it is a life-threatening decision. It compromises vehicle stability, increases stopping distance, and puts both passengers and other road users in grave danger,” Ohaeri said.

The FRSC urged drivers and transport operators to comply strictly with safety standards, stressing that human lives must never be treated as cargo.

“No journey is worth your life,” the corps warned, calling for greater responsibility among road users.

The agency reiterated its commitment to enforcing traffic regulations and reducing road crashes through sustained patrols and public awareness campaigns.