Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement (TRACE) agency has partnered  with Hi-Tech Demographic Consulting Services to enforce the use of roof rack and carriers on trucks to improve road safety.

The Hi-Tech Chairman,Mr Moruf Bello while speaking  during a press conference held at TRACE headquarters in Abeokuta noted that  unregulated roof racks pose significant risks to road safety, including accidents, property damage, and infrastructure degradation. 

Moruf Bello said that his paternership with TRACE will help in ensuring compliance with safety standards, protecting road assets, and maintaining order on highways.

He noted that the scheme involves registering and inspecting all vehicles with roof racks, issuing permits, and enforcing compliance through penalties. 

The HI-TECH chairman added that public education and awareness campaigns will also be conducted to promote understanding and compliance.

He said "By implementing this scheme, Ogun State can significantly improve road safety, protect public infrastructure, and create a more orderly and secure highway environment for all users.

"Ogun State invests significantly in building and maintaining road infrastructure. 

"However these assets are at risk from vehicles carrying excessive or improperly distributed loads on roof racks and carriers, leading to faster road wear and tear. 

"Vehicles with unregulated carriers are prone to carrying more weight than they should, which increases the pressure on road surfaces, bridges, and culverts."

"Implementing a registration and enforcement scheme for roof racks and carriers will ensure that vehicles are operating within safe load limits, protecting the state’s infrastructure from unnecessary damage. 

"This will lead to more durable roads, lower maintenance costs for the government, and a better driving experience for road users." He said

Also the Chief Operating officer of Hi-Tech Mr Babatope Ajewole maintained that unregulated and improperly secured roof racks and carriers are a significant cause of road accidents. 

He maintained that a strict enforcement regime will ensure that all vehicles comply with the relevant traffic laws, including height restrictions, proper load securing, and balance requirements. 

"By creating a standardized process for registering and inspecting roof racks and carriers, the state will be able to enforce order on its roads, resulting in smoother traffic flow and reduced incidents of dangerous driving behavior."

Babatope  also maintained that ogun state under its extant traffic and safety laws, has the legal authority to regulate vehicular activities, particularly regarding road safety and the protection of public infrastructure. 

"The registration and regulation of roof racks and carriers are fully in line with these provisions, providing a legal framework for enforcement and compliance.

"The introduction of a formal registration and enforcement scheme will demonstrate the government’s commitment to upholding these laws and ensuring the welfare of its citizens. It will also position Ogun State as a model of highway safety and regulatory compliance within Nigeria.

"Registration and Inspection System  All vehicles operating with roof racks or carriers must be registered with the state’s traffic authority. As part of this process, the vehicles will undergo a thorough inspection to ensure that their racks and carriers comply with safety and operational standards.

"Partnership with Road Safety and Transport Unions The state will work closely with relevant stakeholders, including transport unions, vehicle associations, and road safety bodies, to ensure smooth implementation and to foster cooperation in achieving the objectives of the scheme." He added