ISPON Begins Enforcement Against Trucks On Kogi Barracks Road August 31

The Institute of Safety
Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON), Kogi State chapter, has warned operators of heavy-duty trucks and trailers against using the Barracks Road corridor leading to GYB Junction in Lokoja, threatening to commence strict enforcement of safety regulations from August 31.

The state chairman of ISPON and chief consultant on Kogi State Safety Standard Regulations and Compliance, Elder Friday Makama, issued the warning during a press briefing in Lokoja.

Makama said the Institute, as the state consultant on safety standards, was mandated to ensure compliance with established safety regulations by companies, industries, government institutions and non-governmental organisations across the state.

He said the Institute had continued to conduct routine inspections of companies, industries and government infrastructure to safeguard lives and property, as well as protect public assets from avoidable damage.

The ISPON chairman, however, expressed concern over what he described as persistent violations by operators of trailers and other heavy-duty vehicles using the Barracks Road, which he said was unsuitable for such vehicles.

He said inspections by the institute revealed that heavy trucks and trailers were increasingly using the Barracks Road instead of the House of Assembly Road, which was designed to accommodate heavy-duty traffic.

“Our inspection has revealed serious violations of safety standards on the Barracks Road axis. Heavy trucks and trailers are illegally using the route instead of the House of Assembly Road, which is specifically designed to accommodate such heavy-duty vehicles,” he said.

According to him, the continued movement of heavy-duty vehicles along the route was contributing to the rapid deterioration and structural damage of the road, while also creating serious safety risks for other road users.

Makama warned that the institute would no longer tolerate the violations, announcing that full enforcement of the safety regulations would commence on August 31.

“As from August 31, any heavy-duty truck or trailer found plying the Barracks Road will be arrested.
“All operators are hereby advised to strictly use the House of Assembly Road linking Crusher and GYB Junction, which is designated for such vehicles,” he warned.

He urged transport unions, haulage companies and other stakeholders to immediately sensitise their members and ensure compliance with the directive.

Makama said the enforcement was not intended to disrupt legitimate business activities but to protect lives, preserve public infrastructure and prevent avoidable accidents and damage.

He reaffirmed ISPON’s commitment to enforcing safety standards across Kogi State, calling on road users, businesses and relevant organisations to cooperate with regulatory authorities in promoting a safer environment and sustainable development.