The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has reportedly directed its personnel not to provide escorts for politicians during campaigns ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. The directive is aimed at ensuring that road safety officers concentrate on traffic management and preventing road crashes rather than providing special movement arrangements for political figures.
The directive was announced by ACM Abimbola Owolabi, Zonal Commanding Officer for RS6, during a visit to the FRSC command in Calabar, Cross River State, on Wednesday. She reportedly instructed officers assigned to political campaign venues to focus on traffic control and measures to prevent road accidents.
The decision comes as political activities are expected to increase ahead of the 2027 elections. Campaign periods often bring increased movement of politicians, supporters and vehicles, placing additional pressure on roads and traffic management personnel.
Owolabi also warned officers against extortion, corruption and unprofessional behaviour. She urged them to carry out their duties responsibly and maintain public confidence in the road safety agency.
The restriction is significant because traffic escorts and the use of sirens by political convoys have long raised concerns about road discipline, traffic congestion and the safety of other road users. Keeping officers focused on their official responsibilities could help improve traffic management during busy campaign events.
As political parties prepare for the next election cycle, the directive highlights the importance of ensuring that public safety agencies carry out their duties professionally and without unnecessary interference from political activities.
The FRSC’s central responsibility remains promoting safer roads, preventing crashes and protecting motorists and other road users. Whether the directive is consistently enforced during the campaign season will be important in determining its impact.
