15 passengers found hidden under truck cover, driver jailed

A federal road safety agency in Nigeria has sentenced a truck driver to one month in jail after authorities discovered 15 passengers hidden beneath the vehicle's cover during an inspection. The driver, identified as Umar Muhammadu, was arrested following a routine check by officers who suspected the sealed "trampoline" on the truck's cargo bed. A video shared on the agency’s official social media platform showed officials lifting a green cover to reveal the concealed individuals along with motorcycles and goods. The incident took place during an enforcement operation led by the Federal Road Safety Corps, or FRSC. Muhammadu was reportedly attempting to bribe an FRSC marshal with N500 and failed to present a valid driver’s license during the inspection. The vehicle and its contents were turned over to local police authorities for further legal action. The FRSC stated that the discovery violated road safety regulations and posed serious risks to both the hidden passengers and other road users. The agency emphasized that such actions undermine public safety and called for strict adherence to traffic laws. This case follows another arrest in Abia State, where a commercial driver named Azubuike Dominic received a one-month prison sentence for driving without a valid license and fleeing from law enforcement. Dominic was re-arrested after escaping during his initial detention. The court, presided over by Chief C. E. Nwankpa, ordered him to serve his sentence at Afara Correctional Centre. Both cases highlight ongoing efforts by the FRSC to address illegal driving practices and enhance road safety nationwide. The FRSC has consistently stressed the importance of compliance with traffic regulations, warning drivers against hiding passengers or motorcycles, overloading vehicles, and offering bribes to law enforcement. The agency has also pledged to continue using intelligence-based enforcement strategies and collaborating with other security bodies to maintain road safety. These measures aim to reduce accidents and promote safer travel conditions for all road users. In addition to these enforcement activities, the FRSC has announced a major deployment ahead of the Osun State governorship election on August 15, 2026. Over 2,500 personnel and 50 vehicles, including seven heavy-duty tow trucks and six ambulances, will be mobilized to manage traffic and provide emergency services during the election. This includes coverage of the three senatorial districts and all key areas in Osun State. The deployment involves staff from the Osun Sector Command, backed by support from neighboring states' sector commands. The FRSC has also planned a training initiative known as the Train-the-Trainer Workshop, which will involve representatives from multiple agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Independent National Electoral Commission, and others. The goal is to ensure that all personnel involved in election-related duties are well-prepared and equipped to handle their roles effectively. Additionally, the agency will verify the safety and roadworthiness of vehicles used to transport election materials before they are deployed. During the election, the FRSC will enforce a restriction of movement order in designated areas starting at 6:00 a.m. on the day of the vote. Law enforcement personnel will be stationed at critical points across the state to monitor traffic and ensure compliance with the restrictions. Motorists and transport operators are urged to plan their trips in advance, follow traffic rules, and avoid restricted zones during the election period. The agency will also assist with traffic control, crowd management, and emergency responses throughout the electoral process.