The Federal Road Safety Corps has recalled an entire patrol team following allegations of bribery reported by an online media platform.
The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, directed the recall to allow for a thorough investigation and possible disciplinary action.
A statement issued by the Corps Public Education Officer and Assistant Corps Marshal, Olusegun Ogungbemide, on Thursday, said the corps remained committed to upholding discipline, with a zero-tolerance policy for corruption and misconduct.
He noted that if the operatives in question were found guilty, they could face dismissal and criminal prosecution.
The statement read, “The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed, has taken decisive action in response to a viral publication by Premium Media outlet, alleging bribery by some of the patrol operatives of the corps; by ordering the immediate recall of the entire patrol team mentioned in the report for thorough investigation and necessary sanction.
“Being an organisation that upholds standards at all times, with established procedures to check indiscipline, corruption and patrol misconducts, if found guilty of bribery or other forms of corruption, the operatives will face severe disciplinary action, including dismissal and prosecution where necessary.”
The Corps also responded to claims in the report concerning a 2021 arrest of FRSC officials by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.
It clarified that while corruption was a nationwide challenge, FRSC had consistently taken proactive steps to rid its ranks of unethical behaviour.
Highlighting past efforts, the corps said it had worked closely with the ICPC and the Department of State Services to conduct joint surveillance operations targeting corrupt officials.
According to a statement, these operations reportedly led to the arrest of “over 70 personnel in one year,” with many facing internal sanctions and prosecution.
Further strengthening its anti-corruption measures, FRSC partnered with the Akin Fadeyi Foundation and the MacArthur Foundation to launch the Flag-It app, a digital platform that enables the public to report cases of extortion and misconduct by FRSC officers.
A newly launched internal mobile app also allows for real-time reporting and recognition of officers who uphold the Corps’ standards.
The corps marshal encouraged the public and the media to remain vigilant and continue supporting FRSC’s efforts by using available tools to report any observed misconduct on roads.