Proposed law targets substance abuse as lawmakers seek to reduce tanker and trailer crashes on Nigerian roads
The House of Representatives is considering legislation that could make regular drug testing compulsory for truck drivers in Nigeria as part of efforts to reduce road crashes involving tankers and trailers.
The proposed measure was disclosed by the lawmaker representing Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency of Anambra State, Peter Uzokwe, who is sponsoring the bill.
Uzokwe said the proposed legislation would require truck drivers to undergo drug tests at least once every six months.
The lawmaker made the disclosure during an interactive session with stakeholders in the petroleum sector, including the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) and Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).
According to him, substance abuse is one of the factors that can contribute to accidents involving heavy-duty vehicles, especially when drivers operate trucks while under the influence of drugs.
He argued that professional training alone may not be enough to guarantee road safety if a driver is abusing substances.
Uzokwe said a driver may be properly trained and capable of handling a vehicle, but drug use could affect the person’s ability to remain focused and make the right decisions while driving.
The lawmaker said the frequent accidents involving tankers and trailers on Nigerian roads should be treated as a serious national safety issue, particularly because such crashes can result in deaths, injuries, destruction of property and major traffic disruptions.
He said regular testing could help identify drivers who may be unfit to operate heavy-duty vehicles and prevent avoidable accidents before they happen.
The bill is expected to go through the legislative process, including further consideration by lawmakers before any proposed requirement can become law.
The move comes amid continued concerns over road safety and the dangers posed by heavy-duty vehicles operating on Nigeria’s busy highways.
Truck and tanker crashes have in many cases caused serious damage because of the size and weight of the vehicles, while accidents involving petroleum tankers can create additional risks because of the combustible products being transported.
If passed and properly implemented, the proposed law could introduce a more regular system of monitoring the fitness of commercial truck drivers and place additional safety responsibilities on transport operators.
However, effective enforcement would be key to the success of any such legislation, including ensuring that drug testing is carried out fairly, professionally and without abuse.
The proposal also places attention on the wider need for stronger road safety measures, proper vehicle maintenance, responsible driving, effective enforcement of traffic regulations and better monitoring of commercial transport operations.
The bill is still under consideration by the House of Representatives and has not yet become law.
IBN News reports that lawmakers and industry stakeholders are expected to continue discussions on the proposal as the legislative process progresses.
