On Thursday, the House of Representatives took decisive action to prohibit the sale of alcohol and psychoactive substances in and around motor parks throughout Nigeria.
This decision followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Mr. Abbas Adigun, the representative for Ibadan North-East/Ibadan South-East Federal Constituency.
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In his presentation during the plenary session, Adigun highlighted a report from the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), which revealed that 90 percent of road accidents in Nigeria are linked to the use of alcohol and hard drugs.
He stated, “The consumption of these substances significantly heightens the risk of motor accidents, impairing driving coordination, judgment, and vision, ultimately leading to loss of life and property.”
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Adigun further noted that it is common practice worldwide to restrict the sale of alcohol and other potentially abused substances to pubs rather than public transport areas.
He expressed concern that motor parks have become hubs for the sale of alcohol and illicit drugs, with drivers consuming these substances prior to departure, thereby jeopardizing passenger safety.
He pointed out, “Many drivers purchase and consume alcohol or hard drugs at motor parks, putting passengers and pedestrians at risk.”
Following the motion’s adoption, the House called on Federal, State, and Local Governments to implement an immediate ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages and related substances in motor parks.
The House also urged the FRSC to enhance its presence in these areas, conducting random tests on drivers to ensure they are not under the influence.
Additionally, lawmakers called on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency to intensify its operations in motor parks, targeting the arrest and prosecution of both dealers and consumers of illicit drugs.
