By Nkechi Eze
The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has ordered the immediate recall of patrol operatives mentioned in a recent viral investigative report alleging bribery and extortion. The action follows the publication by Premium Times, which alleged misconduct by some FRSC personnel while on patrol duties. The recall, according to the Corps, is to allow for a thorough investigation into the allegations and ensure accountability in line with the Corps’ internal disciplinary protocols.
In a firm response that underscores the agency’s stance on integrity and accountability, the Corps Marshal directed that operatives found culpable will not only face severe disciplinary measures including dismissal from service but also be handed over to law enforcement agencies for possible prosecution.
According to an official signed statement made available by the Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, the Corps is committed to addressing the concerns raised in the viral report and wishes to clarify some of the issues reported, particularly a reference to arrests made by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in 2021.
While noting that the publication cited past incidents, the statement emphasized that the management of the Corps has not at any time relaxed its efforts in combating bribery and extortion within its ranks. The Corps, it stated, has for years instituted a robust internal anti-corruption framework and has adopted proactive, systematic approaches to eliminate corrupt practices from its operations.
“The Federal Road Safety Corps has always shown a high level of proactiveness in flushing out bad eggs from its system. The management has demonstrated zero tolerance for corruption through a comprehensive anti-corruption policy, an active internal surveillance mechanism, and a culture of continuous monitoring and evaluation,” the statement read.
It was also revealed that as a result of these internal efforts, many personnel have been dismissed and prosecuted over the years after being found guilty of various forms of misconduct, including extortion and bribery. The Corps reiterated that the disciplinary measures are part of a wider strategy to maintain professional standards and public trust.
Notably, the FRSC had in 2021 initiated a strategic collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the ICPC, leading to the launch of a Joint Surveillance Special Operation. This operation, targeted at exposing and arresting corrupt operatives, recorded significant results in its early phases. The surveillance team apprehended over seventy (70) FRSC personnel in two major tactical swoops, with prima facie cases established against many of them.
The Corps said the joint operation marked a decisive turn in the fight against institutional corruption and demonstrated its seriousness in cleansing its ranks of elements whose conduct undermines the reputation and credibility of the organisation.
Under the current leadership of Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed, the fight against sharp practices has been further intensified. In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and commitment to anti-corruption, the Corps has doubled down on its internal reforms and engagement with external partners.
Among the landmark steps taken is the partnership with renowned international non-governmental organisations such as the Akin Fadeyi Foundation and the MacArthur Foundation to launch the Flag-It App, a digital tool that allows Nigerians to report incidents of extortion, bribery, or poor service delivery by FRSC personnel. According to the statement, the app has already received and resolved numerous complaints, boosting transparency and citizen feedback.
In continuation of these efforts, the FRSC recently launched another dedicated Mobile Application under the leadership of Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed. The app, among other features, includes a reporting channel for motorists to lodge complaints against erring officers as well as to commend outstanding personnel. The Corps said this initiative has significantly reduced cases of misconduct on the highways and has improved personnel discipline.
The Corps Marshal used the occasion to commend Nigerians, civil society, and the media for their watchdog role, stating that public vigilance remains vital in the war against corruption. He urged citizens to continue leveraging available tools like the Flag-It App and the FRSC Mobile App to report any misconduct or infractions noticed during road safety operations.
“The task of eradicating corruption from our system is a collective one. I appreciate members of the public for their unwavering support, and I call on everyone to remain committed to helping us rid the system of bad elements. We are determined to raise the bar of integrity and professionalism in line with our mandate to serve and protect road users,” the Corps Marshal affirmed.
The FRSC reiterated its position that any personnel found guilty of compromising the agency’s standards will face the full weight of internal disciplinary procedures and legal consequences. The Corps also reaffirmed its continued commitment to public accountability, institutional discipline, and the preservation of public trust.
As investigations commence into the latest allegations, the FRSC has assured Nigerians of transparency, due process, and timely communication of outcomes, with a firm resolve to uphold the values that define its mission on Nigerian roads.
