In Nigeria today, the wailing of sirens no longer depicts an emergency situation. It is now being used as an instrument of intimidation and occasionally as a display of prestige.
According to the National Road Traffic Regulation of 2012, only top governmental officials, like the President, Vice-President, governors, and the emergency response team, are allowed to make use of sirens and beamers.
However, in modern reality, we see people like businessmen, entertainers etc, with armed escorts making use of sirens.
Sadly, the penalty is as minimal as 3000 Naira, which we know can’t do anything to deter offenders. Joining us via Zoom to discuss the silent issue is Barrister Joseph Idowu, a legal practitioner and public affairs analyst.
