Hit-and-run crashes are becoming an increasingly disturbing feature of Nigeria’s roads, with victims left abandoned at accident scenes while motorists responsible for the collisions flee, leaving families to grapple with grief, unanswered questions and the long search for justice.
Recent incidents reported across different states have renewed concerns over the growing number of drivers who escape after fatally knocking down pedestrians, motorcyclists and commuters, often delaying emergency medical assistance that could save lives.
Road safety advocates say fleeing the scene of a crash not only frustrates investigations but also reduces the chances of identifying offenders, especially where there are no eyewitnesses or functioning surveillance cameras. They argue that many victims lose valuable time waiting for help because the drivers responsible abandon them instead of alerting emergency responders.
Under Nigerian law, motorists involved in road crashes are expected to stop, render reasonable assistance and report the incident to the appropriate authorities. Failure to do so can attract criminal liability in addition to any offences arising from the collision itself.
Safety experts have called for stronger enforcement through improved traffic surveillance, wider deployment of CCTV on major highways, stricter prosecution of fleeing drivers and greater public awareness of motorists’ legal obligations after accidents.
AbdulBasit Saba is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
