Chris Okpoko
At the flag-off of the 2025 ‘Ember months Road Safety Campaign, themed “Take Responsibility for Your Safety: Stop Distracted Driving,” held in Port Harcourt recently, the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed disclosed that between January and September 2025, Nigeria recorded 7,715 road traffic crashes, representing a 10.04 percent increase compared to 7,011 crashes within the same period in 2024. He also said a total of 3,915 persons were killed in 2025 as against 3,811 in 2024, marking an 11.55 percent rise in fatalities. The Corps Marshal urged motorists across Nigeria to adopt safer driving habits and take personal responsibility for protecting lives and property on the road to avoid carnage. According to him, the campaign aims to reduce road crashes and fatalities often associated with the festive season by encouraging safer attitudes among all categories of road users.
Statistics from the FRSC indicate that road accidents and fatalities generally increase during festive seasons in Nigeria. Hence, there is a need to explore the factors contributing to road carnage during festive seasons, the implications of such accidents, and strategies to curb this concerning trend.
In recent years, road accidents have emerged as a serious public safety concern worldwide. Statistics reveal alarming trends concerning road safety. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), road traffic injuries are one of the leading causes of death globally, with an estimated 1.35 million fatalities each year. Furthermore, millions of individuals suffer non-fatal injuries that can lead to long-term disabilities. Factors contributing to road accidents include human behavior, vehicle conditions, and environmental influences, all of which necessitate a comprehensive approach to safety enhancement.
The rising number of fatalities linked to these carnage has prompted governments, organizations, and communities to explore strategies aimed at curbing this trend. The festive season, such as Christmas, is often associated with joy, celebration, family, and friends reunion. However, in Nigeria, during the so-called ’ember months’—September, October, November, and December—this period is marred by an alarming increase in traffic fatalities. The juxtaposition of celebration and tragedy raises critical questions about road safety, responsible driving, and the collective responsibility society bears in minimizing these incidents.
The majority of road accidents are attributed to human error. Distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and reckless behavior significantly heighten the risk of collisions. Several factors contribute to the spike in road accidents during the ’ember’ months. First and foremost, there is a marked increase in vehicular movement as individuals travel to reunite with loved ones, attend parties, or go shopping for the festive season. The surge in traffic volume exponentially raises the risk of collisions, especially on poorly maintained roads. Additionally, festive celebrations often involve alcohol consumption, which significantly impairs driving abilities. The combination of increased traffic and reduced driver performance creates a perfect storm for accidents.
Moreover, the psychological aspect cannot be overlooked. The holiday spirit often leads to a carefree attitude, resulting in reckless behavior such as speeding, aggressive driving, and disregard for traffic rules. Many individuals feel invincible during this joyous season, mistakenly believing that nothing bad can happen to them. This dangerous mindset culminates in an increase in road carnage, necessitating urgent intervention.
Another contributing factor is the temporary lapse in law enforcement activities during festive seasons. With an increase in public gatherings and celebrations, police forces may be challenged to maintain the same level of vigilance on the roads. Furthermore, inadequate public awareness campaigns regarding road safety during this period exacerbate the risks, as not enough people are reminded of the importance of cautious driving and adherence to traffic laws.
The ramifications of increased road fatalities during the festive season extend beyond the immediate loss of life. Every fatality has a profound impact on families, communities, and society at large. The emotional toll on relatives and friends left behind can be devastating, leading to long-term psychological issues such as grief, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, road accidents impose a financial burden, including medical costs, vehicle repairs, insurance claims, and potential legal fees. The loss of a breadwinner due to a tragic accident can destabilize families, leading to poverty and social issues.
Moreover, the rise in accidents can strain emergency services and healthcare systems, which are often already working at full capacity. Hospitals may face an influx of injured individuals, diverting resources from other medical emergencies. This situation causes a ripple effect on the overall health and safety.
To combat the growing concern of road carnage during the festive season, several effective strategies can be employed. These approaches should encompass government regulations, community engagement, and individual responsibility.
Stricter law enforcement plays a crucial role in deterring unsafe driving practices. Governments must ensure that traffic laws are enforced rigorously, with penalties that reflect the severity of the offense. For example, imposing higher fines for speeding offenses can discourage such behaviors. Additionally, implementing checkpoints can help curb drunk driving, catch violators, and remind drivers of the importance of compliance. Partnerships with technology firms can help develop roadside monitoring systems that detect violations and reinforce legal accountability. Increased police presence on the roads can deter reckless driving.
One of the most effective ways to counteract dangerous driving habits is through comprehensive driver education and awareness campaigns. Such programs should aim to inform drivers about the consequences of reckless behavior and the importance of adhering to traffic laws. For instance, local governments could implement mandatory workshops on safe driving practices. Public service announcements via social media, television, and radio can reinforce these messages, presenting compelling statistics and testimonials from accident survivors or bereaved families.
Engaging public awareness campaigns such as the one conducted by the FRSC can inform and educate drivers about the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of adhering to traffic laws. Collaborating with local communities, schools, and businesses can amplify the reach and effectiveness of such campaigns.
While human behavior is a significant factor in road accidents, vehicle safety cannot be overlooked. Advances in automotive technology hold immense potential in reducing the risks associated with driving. Government and regulatory bodies should enforce stringent vehicle safety standards that require manufacturers to incorporate advanced safety technologies. Features such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), lane departure warnings, and automatic emergency braking can greatly enhance vehicle safety and reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Similarly, a well-maintained vehicle is less likely to experience failures that can lead to accidents. Educational campaigns should encourage owners to adhere to regular maintenance schedules, ensuring that brakes, tires, lights, and other critical components are in optimal condition. Local governments could partner with auto repair shops to offer discounted services for low-income drivers, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder vehicle safety. Ultimately, the evolution of autonomous vehicles presents a transformative opportunity for road safety. These vehicles are designed to reduce human error by utilizing advanced sensors and software to navigate safely. While widespread adoption remains some years away, investment in research, development, and infrastructure supporting autonomous technology will be essential in reshaping the future of transport and reducing accident rates.
Fostering a culture of safety within communities is paramount in addressing road safety issues. Collective action and engagement can create an environment that prioritizes shared responsibility and vigilance. Local communities can organize events that promote road safety, such as community walks or workshops focused on safe driving practices. Engaging local leaders and influencers can amplify the message and encourage broader participation. Schools can also play a role by integrating road safety topics into their curricula, instilling safe habits in young pedestrians and cyclists.
Collaborations with non-profit organizations, businesses, and law enforcement agencies can amplify road safety campaigns. These partnerships can mobilize resources for educational programs and promote initiatives such as “safe driving weeks,” during which communities actively promote adherence to road safety principles. In addition, social media serves as a powerful tool for raising awareness and mobilizing communities. By leveraging platforms to share road safety tips, stories of those affected by accidents, and statistics, communities can create a shared narrative that engenders collective action towards reducing road casualties.
Investing in road infrastructure improvements is pivotal in reducing accidents. The design and maintenance of roadways contribute significantly to road safety. Poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, and unwieldy intersections can lead to confusion and accidents. Therefore, investing in better infrastructure is vital. Cities and municipalities should prioritize designing safer roads that consider the needs of all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motor vehicles. Implementing features such as roundabouts, speed bumps, dedicated bike lanes, and pedestrian-friendly crossings can significantly reduce accidents. Urban planners must engage communities in discussions surrounding potential infrastructure improvements to ensure that the proposed changes reflect local needs.
Also, ongoing maintenance of existing road infrastructure is equally important. Governments should allocate sufficient funds to repair potholes, repaint faded road markings, and replace broken traffic signals. Regular road safety assessments can help identify high-risk areas where targeted improvements can be built to prevent accidents.
Furthermore, integrating smart technology into traffic management systems can reduce road accidents. Real-time monitoring of traffic patterns can help manage congestion and reduce the likelihood of collisions. Systems that alert drivers to potential hazards, such as accidents or roadwork ahead, can provide valuable information that promotes safer driving behaviors.
Encouraging defensive driving techniques among drivers can also significantly reduce accidents. These techniques include maintaining a safe following distance, anticipating other drivers, and being prepared to respond to unexpected situations. Organizations could offer courses to equip drivers with these skills, emphasizing their importance in preventing road incidents.
Finally, promoting a culture of responsible celebration is crucial. Events and gatherings should incorporate measures that discourage excessive alcohol consumption, such as providing non-alcoholic drink options and promoting moderation. By fostering an environment that values safety over recklessness, communities can work together to prevent tragedy during the festive months.
In conclusion, the festive season should embody joy, togetherness, and celebration. However, the increasing carnage on the roads during the Ember months cast a shadow over these festivities. We must acknowledge the factors contributing to this troubling trend and take decisive action to address them. Through robust law enforcement, public awareness campaigns, community engagement, and infrastructure improvements, society can work collaboratively to curb road carnage during this time.
Ultimately, the responsibility lies with each individual to practice safe driving and embrace a culture that prioritizes the well-being of all road users. By doing so, we can ensure that the festive season remains a time of joy and not one of mourning, allowing everyone to celebrate with their loved ones safely and responsibly.