The Lagos State Sector Commander of Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr. Hyginus Omeje, has warned articulated vehicle drivers against loading their vehicles above bridgeheads and electrical installations.
Omeje who gave the warning in Lagos, yesterday, said some trucks in the city centre usually took the risk of carrying containers or loads that were higher than electrical cables, foot and flyover bridges.
He said such truck drivers used long poles or sticks to lift electrical cables, saying that they risked being electrocuted.
“We have always cautioned those engaged in carrying too much load within streets, it cannot occur on the major highways except around Badagry.
“On the Badagry axis, we have had some cases where they will cross the Nigerian border and add excess load when they get to the trade fair area.
“It resulted in one or two crashes in the past but ever since, we have put eagle eyes on them – articulated vehicles, along with other security agencies.
“When we see such kind of load, we stop them and make sure they reduce it. Some of them carry out such acts mostly at night.
“The height of the vehicles is usually not the problem because the manufacturers built them to specifications which considered the bridges but the excess load is what causes the problems.
“It is an offence, it is not negotiable, if we get to see such drivers carrying loads higher than bridges, we impound the vehicle,” Omeje said.