Court of Appeal President Champions Crackdown on Drunk Driving, Advocates for Commuter Safety
By Raymond Enoch
In a decisive move to curb road crashes caused by driving under the influence (DUI), the President of the Court of Appeal, Her Lordship, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, has launched a nationwide campaign to combat the menace of drunk driving in Nigeria.
The initiative, which took place at Jabi Central Motor Park in Abuja, FCT February 6, 2025, was organized in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), with strong support from transport unions, law enforcement agencies, and road safety advocacy groups.
Justice Dongban-Mensem emphasized the urgent need for collective action against DUI, describing it as a critical issue that endangers countless lives on Nigerian roads. She also called on commuters to take charge of their safety by speaking out against reckless driving and making informed choices while traveling.
“As a nation, we must take a collective stand against this menace and work towards creating a safer and more responsible driving culture,” she stated.
A Stronger Partnership for Road Safety
Speaking at the event, the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, lauded the judiciary’s involvement in road safety efforts, noting that this new push signals a stronger partnership between the courts and law enforcement agencies in ensuring safer roads for all.
“The President of the Court of Appeal’s stance against driving under the influence is a call to action for all Nigerians,” Mohammed stated. “We must work together to educate ourselves and others, report reckless driving, and support initiatives that promote road safety.”
Similarly, the representative of NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (Rtd.), reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strict enforcement of DUI laws, stressing that offenders will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
“Driving under the influence will no longer be tolerated,” he declared, pledging NDLEA’s readiness to partner with FRSC in cracking down on drug and alcohol-impaired drivers.
The campaign also received backing from transport operators, with Mr. Gabriel Okeh, Chairman of Jabi Central Motor Park, commending Justice Dongban-Mensem for her bold leadership in addressing DUI.
“We commend her commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens and pledge our support for this initiative,” Okeh stated.
The campaign is expected to extend to other regions, with increased enforcement measures and public education on the risks of DUI. Stakeholders believe that with sustained advocacy and stricter penalties for offenders, Nigeria can significantly reduce road traffic accidents caused by impaired driving.
This initiative marks a critical step towards promoting a culture of responsible road use, ensuring that commuters reach their destinations safely while holding drivers accountable for their actions.
