Speeding, Overloading Top Causes Of Road Crashes In Kaduna – FRSC

Speeding, overloading and the dangerous practice of conveying passengers alongside goods and animals have been identified as major factors contributing to road traffic crashes in Kaduna State.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander in Kaduna State, Corps Commander Andrew Longkam, said speeding remained the leading cause of road traffic crashes in the state, warning motorists against violating traffic regulations, particularly during the ember months.

Longkam disclosed this to LEADERSHIP after an awareness campaign organised by the Kaduna State Sector Command as part of activities lined up for the 2026 ember months.

He said the campaign, which featured a walking rally from the command headquarters to the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and Barau Dikko Specialist Teaching Hospital before returning to the office, was aimed at sensitising road users to the dangers of reckless driving.

According to him, the ember months, which run from September to December, usually witness increased traffic volume, with a corresponding rise in road traffic crashes, injuries and fatalities.

The FRSC boss said the 2026 ember months campaign was themed: “Overloading and Mixed Loading: A Dangerous Trend to Avoid,” adding that the initiative was designed to promote responsible road use and reduce crashes.

He explained that overloading occurred when drivers carried passengers beyond the approved capacity of their vehicles, a practice that could compromise vehicle stability and make it difficult for drivers to maintain control during emergencies.

“Some drivers carry five, six and even up to nine passengers in vehicles meant to convey four persons.

“In the event of a crash, you will discover that the casualties will be very high,” Longkam said.

He added that some commercial drivers also engaged in the dangerous practice of carrying multiple passengers in the front seat, thereby increasing the risk of losing control of their vehicles.

On mixed loading, the sector commander described the practice of transporting passengers alongside goods and animals as hazardous, noting that such items could cause additional injuries or fatalities during crashes.

He urged commercial drivers to desist from conveying excess passengers, goods and animals together, stressing that road users must prioritise safety over financial gains.

Longkam, however, identified speeding as the leading cause of road traffic crashes in Kaduna State, attributing the practice partly to commercial drivers’ desire to make more trips and increase their earnings.

He said drivers often exceeded prescribed speed limits in a bid to transport passengers, return and pick up more commuters, thereby exposing themselves and other road users to avoidable dangers.

He, therefore, called on motorists to obey speed limits, adhere to traffic rules and regulations, and adopt responsible driving habits, to make roads in Kaduna State safer.