(Nyesom Wike. Photo by Nigeria Stories)
Following concerns from locals that the practice puts other drivers in risk, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has ordered the territory’s traffic department to cease vehicle racing in residential neighborhoods.
On Monday in Abuja, Wike issued the order while answering questions.
The minister pledged prompt action, but stated that he had not received a formal complaint about the issue until it was brought up during the interview.
Wike said that although no formal complaint had been lodged regarding the issue, he would now direct the traffic section to look into it and make it clear that such practices would no longer be tolerated.
He explained that residents who engage in the practice are often driven by pride in the quality of the roads, but insisted that safety must take priority.
According to him, while such individuals may simply be trying to showcase how good the roads are, they often overlook the danger this poses to innocent citizens.
The minister said racing enthusiasts were still free to engage in the activity, but only within designated locations away from residential areas, stressing that no one would be permitted to carry out car racing where people reside.
He appealed to residents to understand that their rights come with limitations, adding that human life takes precedence.
He clarified, however, that the restriction would not apply to highways, assuring residents that while car racing within residential areas would not be tolerated, racing on highways would not be stopped.