by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Zonal Commanding Officer Assistant Corps Marshal, Joseph S. Udoabba, says the work of the FRSC is not a one-man job – it requires collaboration.
“The National Road Safety Strategy (NRSS) document clearly outlines the roles of different partners. If we all play our roles diligently, we will improve road safety consciousness in this country,” Joseph Udoabba stated.
He was speaking during a courtesy call on NUJ EXCO members at the Plateau State Council, on Monday in Jos, when he stressed that, “I’m at the NUJ – because I recognize it as the umbrella body of the Fourth Estate, the “pen pushers,” as we call you.
“You are the ones keeping everything going. I need your support to succeed in Plateau and beyond. We cannot do it alone. I came with my team, including the Sector Commander for Plateau State, because teamwork is essential,” he stated.
The Zonal Commanding Officer explained further that, his visit was significant to the Press because they are a strategic partner to their success and progress.
According to him, he has been closely associated with the media over the years, saying, “I know how it works, and we cannot afford to sideline the Fourth Estate of the realm.”
“That’s why we have come; I was fortunate to be posted here and reported on the 13th of this month. By the 16th, I took over the mantle of leadership and, since then, I have been observing happenings on the Plateau.
“From here, I will be launching out to Benue and Nasarawa, which are also under my command. It’s a tough task, but with your cooperation, I believe it will be easier,” he stated.
“Though, we may not have all the resources, you can amplify the little we do. Help us inform the public about our efforts. Today, whatever happens here is seen across the world – thanks to mobile phones and digital technology. The world is now a global village, and journalists are at the center of it,” Joseph Udoabba stated.
But, he observed that, “Unfortunately, not all who publish news do so professionally. I’m referring to pseudo-journalists, who sometimes escalate situations unnecessarily. A single misreported incident can spark unrest or even lead to the loss of lives.
“Recently, we paid a condolence visit to St. Williams Parish in Zawan. The Rev. Father Polycarp Lubo was involved in a crash. During treatment, he passed away. He still had so much to offer – so much knowledge he could have imparted – but sadly, it was lost.
“I discovered he wasn’t wearing a seat-belt. That’s all it took. That is why our rules are for everyone, not just FRSC personnel. The rules are meant to keep all road users safe. Please, don’t see us as harsh,” he said.
He pointed out that their goal is for every road user to reach their destination safely. “The work of the FRSC has gone on for 37 years, and throughout, we have focused on public enlightenment. The NUJ has always supported us – through print, radio, television and, now, even social media; and I will continue to seek your partnership,” he said.
Responding, NUJ Chairman, Ayuku Pwaspo, stated that, they have maintained a cordial working relationship with the FRSC, saying, “Once in a while, we deal with challenges involving some colleagues, but we try to resolve those issues through direct engagement and calls.”
While appreciating the partnership they have enjoyed over the years, the NUJ chairman thanked the Corps Marshal for sustaining it – “as a strategic partner. At the national level, too, the FRSC is recognized as a major partner. I’m sure our colleagues across the states will agree that the FRSC and NUJ have a very collaborative relationship.”
She assured of the NUJ’s continuous support for Road Safety Marshals in every way possible. “Your success is our success. We are all working towards the development and safety of our society,” she noted.
“As journalists, it is our duty to disseminate accurate information to the public. We will continue to use our platforms to amplify your voice, especially on matters of road safety.
Chairman Pwaspo buttressed that, “During the special periods like ‘Ember’ months, we participate actively in campaigns to keep both drivers and passengers safe.
“That said, social media has posed a serious challenge to the profession. The real concern is social media. We’ve seen videos of altercations involving road users and your personnel. These do not portray the Corps well. And we, too, as journalists, are not without fault – we also have ‘bad eggs.’ But we are doing our best to uphold ethical standards,” she stated.
“We believe in responsible journalism – journalism that solves problems, promotes peace, and fosters development.
“There’s been a lot of misuse of NUJ stickers on vehicles, especially by commercial vehicles. People see a sticker labeled ‘PRESS’ and assume it’s legitimate.
“We want to sanitize that space and ensure only registered NUJ members use our identity, so that it’s not misused for actions that threaten public safety,” she stated.