ISPON Warns Kogi Truckers, Sets August 31 Enforcement Deadline
The Kogi State chapter of the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON) has warned operators of heavy-duty trucks and trailers against using roads not designated for articulated vehicles, saying enforcement will commence on August 31.
The institute said the directive became necessary following repeated violations of road safety regulations and the increasing damage being done to public infrastructure by heavy trucks operating on restricted routes.
The state chairman of ISPON and Consultant on Safety Standard Regulations and Compliance, Elder Friday Sani Makama, disclosed this on Tuesday at a press briefing in Lokoja.
Makama said ISPON was responsible for promoting compliance with safety regulations among companies, industries, government institutions and non-governmental organisations across the state.
He added that the institute conducts regular inspections of public infrastructure and industrial activities to identify safety breaches and safeguard lives and property.
According to him, recent inspections revealed persistent violations along the Meme/Barracks Road leading to the “Welcome to Kogi State” axis, where heavy-duty trucks and trailers continued to operate despite restrictions.
Makama explained that the road was not designed to withstand the weight and volume of articulated vehicles, stressing that truck operators had been directed to use House of Assembly Road, which was constructed to accommodate heavy-duty traffic and connects through Crusher and GYB Junction.
He warned that continued use of the restricted route by articulated vehicles was accelerating the deterioration of the road while exposing motorists, pedestrians and residents to avoidable risks.
Describing the development as a serious safety violation, the ISPON chairman said the institute would no longer tolerate the practice.
“Effective from August 31, any heavy truck or trailer found using the restricted road will be arrested. Operators are hereby advised to comply by using the approved route to avoid sanctions,” he warned.
Makama urged transport unions, logistics companies, truck owners and other stakeholders to ensure that their members and operators complied with approved routes and other safety regulations.
He reaffirmed ISPON’s commitment to enforcing safety standards and protecting public infrastructure across Kogi State, noting that compliance with road regulations was crucial to preventing avoidable accidents and safeguarding motorists and residents.
