By Nkechi Eze
The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has commended the management of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja, for its prompt disciplinary action against staff allegedly involved in the neglect of a crash victim brought in by FRSC operatives. The commendation follows widespread concerns about hospital rejections of emergency victims in the country.
In a statement made available by Olusegun Ogungbemide, spokesperson for the Corps, the Corps Marshal emphasized the critical importance of timely and adequate medical care in reducing mortality and improving survival outcomes for road crash victims. He condemned the recurring trend of hospitals refusing to attend to victims rescued from crash scenes, describing it as a direct violation of established protocols.
Mohammed highlighted that the recently enacted National Road Traffic Regulations (2024) expressly prohibit hospitals from rejecting crash victims, with provisions outlining punitive measures for any negligence or misconduct that undermines emergency response efforts.
He further urged all healthcare providers across the country to adopt a proactive and compassionate approach when attending to victims of road traffic crashes, stressing that saving lives should be prioritized above all else.
“The welfare of crash victims must be paramount. Healthcare professionals must uphold the highest standards of professionalism and urgency in such critical moments,” he said.
Reaffirming the FRSC’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with healthcare institutions and relevant stakeholders, the Corps Marshal stated that such partnerships are essential to enhancing road safety outcomes and reducing fatalities on Nigerian roads. “By working together, we can significantly reduce the number of deaths caused by road crashes and improve emergency responses across the country,” he stated.
In addition, the Corps Marshal extended heartfelt commendation to a concerned Nigerian citizen who singlehandedly rescued the victim involved in the recent incident. He called on other citizens to emulate such acts of patriotism by promoting a culture of safety, discipline, and compassion in emergency situations.
“Together, through unity of purpose and a shared sense of responsibility, we can make a difference and save more lives,” he added.
