The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Katsina State Sector Command, has intensified efforts to curb unsafe loading practices across the state as part of its mandate to safeguard lives and property on Nigerian highways. In collaboration with the Amalgamated Union of Foodstuff and Cattle Dealers of Nigeria, Katsina State Chapter, officers and special marshals of the Corps launched a major outreach campaign at the Mai’Adua Livestock Market to address the growing dangers associated with the transportation of livestock and heavy-duty cargo.
2. The Sector Commander, Corps Commander Maxwell Kaltungo Lede, led the operation personally, focusing on the persistent menace of mix-loading involving animals, goods, and human passengers — a practice that has become a serious obstacle to achieving a safe motoring environment.
3. Addressing heavy-duty vehicle owners, drivers, union representatives, and livestock dealers, Corps Commander Lede expressed deep concern over the regrettable and emerging trend of unsafe loading originating from markets across the North-West region. He described the situation as unacceptable and warned that the Corps would no longer tolerate conduct that places innocent lives at risk.
4. He particularly condemned the inhumane practice by some truck drivers who, after fully loading their vehicles with cattle, proceed to convey human passengers—often dangerously seated on top of the animals—especially on long-distance journeys to the eastern parts of the country. Such acts, he emphasized, not only contravene traffic regulations but also expose passengers and other road users to avoidable tragedies.
5. The Sector Commander stressed that this reckless behavior is irresponsible, unlawful, and contrary to the values of a civilized society. He lamented that despite repeated warnings, some drivers continue to engage in practices that clearly endanger human life.
6. He further assured that the Federal Road Safety Corps will sustain continuous engagements across motor parks and loading points, backed by decisive enforcement measures. Offenders involved in unsafe loading, he said, will be arrested and prosecuted, as the Corps will not compromise on issues relating to human safety under any circumstances.
7. Expressing optimism, Corps Commander Lede highlighted the strong cooperation of key stakeholders, including the NURTW, NARTO, Amalgamated Union of Foodstuff and Cattle Dealers of Nigeria (AUFCDN), religious and traditional institutions, security agencies, the media, and the unwavering support of the Katsina State Government. He noted that with such collaboration, success in this campaign is achievable and sustainable.
8. Courtesy Visit to the District Heads as follows:
a. Alhaji Ahmad Ahmad Didire — Galadiman Daura, Hakimin Mai’adua
b. Alhaji Ibrahim Ahmad — Marusan Daura, Hakimin Yandi.
9. Other stakeholders in the team includes:
i. Alhaji Yusha’u Sani — Sarkin Tasha
ii. Alhaji Sale Yusuf — Shugaban Yan Kamasho
iii. Alhaji Ilyasu Sani — Chairman, Amalgamated Union
iv. Alhaji Baba Habu — Sarkin Shanu
10. In their collective remarks, the traditional leaders, union representatives and market stakeholders commended the FRSC for its proactive intervention and pledged their full cooperation toward eliminating unsafe loading practices within their domains. They affirmed their readiness to mobilize transport operators, sensitize livestock dealers, and support enforcement efforts through continuous dialogue and community awareness.
11. With this renewed spirit of partnership, the Federal Road Safety Corps and critical stakeholders resolved to work hand in hand to ensure total compliance with traffic safety regulations, protect human lives, and promote a safer transportation culture across Katsina State and beyond.
