Lawmakers Urge Stricter Trailer Regulations in Ogun

... Applauds Gov Abiodun's Infrastructural Strides

The Ogun State House of Assembly has called for urgent measures to address the growing menace of trailer-related accidents on the state's highways, urging the Ministries of Transportation and Environment, alongside other relevant agencies, to implement stringent safety regulations. 

This move is part of efforts to safeguard lives, properties, and the environment from the devastating consequences of reckless trailer operations.

The resolution, titled "H.R. No. 123/OG/2024: Urgent Need to Address the Rising Incident of Trailer-Related Accidents on Roads Across the State", was adopted during a plenary session following a motion sponsored by Hon. Wasiu Ayodele. The motion, seconded by Hon. Babatunde Tella, received unanimous support from lawmakers.

While presenting the motion, Hon. Ayodele emphasized the urgent need for intervention to protect citizens. He noted, "The alarming increase in trailer-related accidents, especially those carrying hazardous materials like petrol, is a call to action. These incidents often result in tragic loss of lives, destruction of properties, and severe environmental damage." 

He attributed many of these accidents to poor vehicle maintenance, unqualified drivers, and inadequate enforcement of safety regulations.

He further explained that the resolution seeks to mandate the relevant ministries and agencies to design stringent policies to regulate the movement and activities of trailers. This includes conducting regular inspections to ensure proper vehicle maintenance, enforcing road safety laws, and verifying the qualifications of drivers operating heavy-duty vehicles. 

"We cannot afford to wait for more tragedies before acting. This motion serves as a warning signal to preserve the welfare of our people," he added.

Supporting the motion, Hon. Babatunde Tella highlighted the grave consequences of trailer-related accidents. "These incidents not only claim lives but also cause long-term economic and social challenges due to damage to infrastructure and the environment. The reckless behavior of some drivers and lapses in enforcement make our roads perilous. Intensifying inspections and ensuring only qualified drivers operate these vehicles is non-negotiable," he said.

Hon. Tella also stressed the importance of public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on responding to hazardous material spills. "Preventing secondary accidents, such as fires caused by the fetching of spilled petrol, is critical in minimizing casualties," he noted.

The Assembly further urged the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE) to intensify its enforcement of traffic laws and ensure compliance with safety standards by trailer operators.

In a related development, the Assembly commended the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun for its strides in infrastructural development, particularly the road interventions in Ifo 2 State Constituency. 

The commendation followed a presentation by Hon. Fatiu Salami, who applauded the ongoing road constructions along Alagbole-Akute, Ojodu, and Hacules roads.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Elemide, joined in appreciating the governor’s efforts but called for an extension of similar projects to other constituencies. 

"While we laud the progress in Ifo 2 and other areas, we appeal for equal attention to infrastructural needs across all constituencies," the Speaker said.