FRSC debunks viral video, denies assault on motorist in Abuja

Cityscope, Crime Diary

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued a clarification over a viral video circulating on social media alleging that one of its officers assaulted a motorist in the Central Business District of Abuja.

In a statement signed by Osondu Ohaeri, Deputy Corps Commander, the Corps denied the claim, insisting that no officer attacked, threatened, or attempted to use force against the driver or any occupant of the vehicle. It also clarified that the individual seen in the video holding an iron rod is not an FRSC officer.

According to the FRSC, the incident occurred during a routine traffic enforcement operation by its RS7.14 Central Business District Unit Command on Thursday, 16 April 2026. The vehicle in question was lawfully intercepted for traffic violations, including overloading and failure to comply with seatbelt regulations.

The Corps said the situation escalated when the driver became non-compliant and deviated from lawful directives, creating a scene that attracted public attention and heightened tension in the area. As the situation unfolded, a crowd gathered, raising concerns about potential disorder.

In the statement signed by Osondu Ohaeri, Deputy Corps Commander and Corps Public Education Officer, the FRSC maintained that its personnel exercised restraint throughout the encounter.

“It is important to categorically state that at no time did any FRSC personnel assault, threaten, or attempt to use force against the driver or any occupant of the vehicle,” the statement said.

The Corps further explained that the individual seen wielding a rod in the video was a passerby whose actions have been misconstrued, leading to a distorted narrative of the incident.

Reaffirming its commitment to professionalism, the FRSC stated that its officers adhered to established procedures and demonstrated restraint and emotional intelligence in line with global best practices in enforcement and conflict management.