By Stella Obi
Every day, thousands of people walk to workplaces, schools, markets, and other destinations. For many pedestrians, however, crossing the road is not merely a routine activity but a daily challenge that often puts their safety at risk.
People of all ages navigate busy highways and congested streets, hoping to reach their destinations safely despite speeding vehicles and impatient drivers. The elderly, schoolchildren, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities are among the most vulnerable. While some wait patiently for a break in traffic, others are forced to dash across multiple lanes, risking their lives in the process.
The situation becomes more challenging during the rainy season. Flooded roads, blocked drainages, and potholes often leave pedestrians with little option but to walk on the roadway, exposing them to a greater risk of accidents. In many areas, sidewalks are occupied by traders, while illegally parked vehicles further obstruct safe passage.
Traffic authorities continue to enforce road safety regulations, many motorists still disregard speed limits and fail to yield to pedestrians at designated crossings. This disregard for traffic rules has resulted in avoidable injuries and fatalities, leaving many families to grieve loved ones lost in preventable accidents. To address this, stricter penalties for traffic violations should be enforced to deter reckless behaviour and promote responsible driving.
Public awareness campaigns are equally important in improving pedestrian safety. Both motorists and pedestrians should be educated on the need to obey traffic rules and support government efforts aimed at protecting road users. Greater enlightenment on the proper use of pedestrian bridges, zebra crossings, and other designated crossing points, particularly in busy areas, would go a long way in reducing accidents.
Pedestrians also have a responsibility to protect themselves by avoiding unsafe crossing points, obeying traffic signals, and resisting the temptation to run across busy roads. Ensuring pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility that requires the commitment of government, motorists, and pedestrians alike.
Stella Obi is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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Last modified: July 24, 2026
