The Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) on Monday flagged off its 2026 Ember Months Safety Campaign, urging motorists and other road users to observe traffic regulations and prioritise safety throughout the festive season.
The flag-off ceremony, held at the Authority’s headquarters, State Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, was led by the Executive Chairman, Maj. Adesagba Adekoya (Rtd).
Speaking at the event, Maj. Adekoya warned that disregard for traffic rules and regulations remains a major cause of road accidents, particularly during the ember months, when vehicular movement increases significantly.
He appealed to motorists to exercise patience and caution, noting that increased traffic, impatience and the rush to meet end-of-year demands often contribute to road crashes.
“The ember months are characterised by increased vehicular movement, impatience and rush. I want to appeal to all road users that no journey is worth your life. Obedience to traffic rules is not for OYRTMA; it is for your own safety,” he said.
The OYRTMA Chairman further cautioned motorists against traffic light violations, driving against traffic, overloading and driving under the influence of alcohol, stressing that such acts endanger not only the drivers but also other innocent road users.
He specifically urged commercial drivers to shun reckless driving and prioritise the safety of passengers over financial gains.
“Do not drink and drive. Do not carry overload. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition. If you are tired, please park and rest. We want every road user to get home safely to their loved ones,” he said.
The campaign, themed “Safe Road, Safe Life: Drive Responsibly During These Ember Months,” is aimed at raising public awareness about road safety and reducing traffic-related accidents across the state.
The awareness rally traversed major parts of Ibadan metropolis, including Agodi, Mokola, Ojoo, Iwo Road, Dugbe, Eleyele, Ona-Ara, Mapo, Egbeda, Akobo, Olodo and Akinyele.
The Authority disclosed that the campaign also extended to the outskirts of Ibadan and other zones of the state, including Ogbomoso, Oyo, Eruwa, Saki and Iseyin.
As part of efforts to broaden public sensitisation, OYRTMA said advocacy visits were conducted at mosques during Jumat services on Friday and churches during Sunday services.
Maj. Adekoya assured that the campaign would continue throughout the ember months, expressing optimism that sustained public awareness and compliance with traffic regulations would help safeguard lives and property and ensure a peaceful and accident-free end-of-year celebration for motorists and their loved ones.
