By Theresa Moses
Lagos State (Èkó in Yoruba), in South-West Nigeria, is the most populous urban area in Africa. Its nickname(s) is Èkó akete, or Lasgidi; its motto is Centre of Excellence; and Èkó ò ní bàjẹ́ o! in Yoruba.
In the bustling streets of Lagos, a crashes between vehicles and pedestrians unfold daily at the unassuming yet crucial zebra crossings. Despite clear traffic regulations mandating drivers and bikers to yield to pedestrians on these designated paths, the impatience of commuters often leads to a disregard for these fundamental road rules.
As an investigative journalist delving into the heart of Lagos’ traffic challenges, it’s evident that the mazed pace of life in this metropolitan hub has blurred the lines of respect for pedestrian rights at zebra crossings.
The warning echoes of ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer, resonates loud and clear: it is indeed a criminal offence to knock down a pedestrian on these demarcated paths, yet this seems to be an overlooked truth amidst the chaos of the city’s streets.
The urgency to get to destinations often beclouds the judgement of many drivers and bikers, leading to a blatant disregard for the safety of pedestrians traversing these crucial crossings. It’s more than just a traffic regulation; it’s a fundamental rule that safeguards lives. The law unequivocally stipulates that vehicles and bikers must yield to pedestrians at Zebra crossings.
However, reality paints a starkly different picture. The rush of Lagosians seemingly outweighs the need for caution and empathy towards those on foot.
In this megacity, the urgency to arrive somewhere often overrides the patience required to pause for those navigating the crossings. The result? A daily dance of near-misses and tragedy – some that aren’t near-misses at all. On a daily basis, pedestrians are endangered, and their safety is neglected by drivers and riders eager to leap ahead, even if it means breaching the basic protocol of road safety.
The true essence of these regulations extends beyond legalities; it’s about fostering a culture of respect, patience, and empathy on the roads. Pedestrians deserve the assurance that these crossings are not just symbolic but practical safe havens in a sea of vehicular movement.
Striking a pedestrian on a zebra crossing transcends the realm of a routine violation; it has the potential to be regarded as a criminal act. Lives are altered irreparably due to the rush that blind drivers and riders to their responsibility towards the vulnerable souls traversing these designated paths.
Our duty as road users isn’t solely to reach our destinations but to ensure everyone arrives safely. Like they say: ‘Better late than never’. This echoes the core essence of observing traffic rules—to protect ourselves and others on the road. It’s a moral obligation that shouldn’t be sidelined by the impatience inherent in our daily activities.
As an investigative journalist committed to shedding light on societal intricacies, this is not just a report but a clarion call. It’s a plea to re-evaluate our priorities, to slow down during rush times, and to honour the sanctity of Zebra Crossings. The urgency of our lives should never eclipse the value of human safety.
Let this be a reminder to all Lagosians: the rush is fleeting, but the consequences of neglecting road safety can be enduring. The narrative needs to shift from a race against time to a collective responsibility towards safeguarding lives, respecting the sanctity of zebra crossings, and fostering a city where urgency does not compromise safety.
The city’s heartbeat may pulse rapidly, but it’s imperative that it beat in sync with the safety and well-being of all its inhabitants. It’s time for a paradigm shift, one that prioritises pedestrian safety without compromising the city’s dynamic movement.
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