Mix-loading
By Zubairu Idris
Katsina, Dec. 23, 2025 (NAN) The Federal Road Safety Corps, Katsina Command, has intensified public enlightenment against trucks carrying animals alongside passengers at the Charanchi livestock market.
Leading the campaign, Sector Commander, Maxwell Lede, said the exercise aligned with the FRSC mandate to protect lives and property on highways.
Lede explained that Charanchi market was chosen because of its strategic importance as a major international livestock trading hub.
He said the market attracts herders and traders from across the North-West and neighbouring countries, including Niger.
“Its prominence makes it a critical point for addressing unsafe loading practices at the source,” the sector commander stressed.
Lede warned of dangers linked to improper loading and emphasised the need for strict compliance with road safety regulations.
“The exercise was necessitated by persistent violations, particularly the hazardous mix-loading of animals, goods and passengers,” he said.
He identified mix-loading as a major contributor to road crashes, especially during the yuletide period when traffic volume increases nationwide.
On arrival, Lede paid a courtesy visit to the District Head of Charanchi, the Sarkin Shanun Katsina, Alhaji Abdulkadir Abashe.
He underscored the role of traditional rulers in influencing behaviour and reinforcing compliance with safety standards.
Responding, Abashe pledged full support and commended the FRSC for sustained community engagement through enlightenment and enforcement.
The sector commander also engaged leaders of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, including taxi, bus and truck operators.
He said union leaders bore responsibility for curbing mix-loading from departure points and protecting passengers’ lives.
Lede urged stakeholders to prioritise human life above profit, stressing that collective commitment was needed to reverse the dangerous practice.
Transport union leaders appreciated the engagement and pledged continued collaboration with the FRSC to enforce safe loading practices. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
ZI/KTO
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Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo