Tanker and trailer drivers could soon be forced to undergo compulsory drug tests every six months if a new bill before the House of Representatives becomes law, as lawmakers crack down on the rising wave of deadly crashes involving heavy-duty trucks across Nigeria.
The proposed legislation was unveiled on Tuesday by its sponsor, Peter Uzokwe, who represents Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo Federal Constituency of Anambra State, during an interactive meeting between the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) and major players in the downstream oil and gas sector.
The meeting brought together representatives of the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).
Uzokwe said the bill is aimed at flushing out drug abuse among tanker and trailer drivers, describing substance use as one of the leading avoidable causes of the horrific road crashes that have repeatedly claimed lives and destroyed property nationwide.
He said mandatory drug screening every six months would help identify drivers unfit to be behind the wheel and prevent them from operating dangerous heavy-duty vehicles while under the influence of drugs.
The lawmaker argued that the measure would boost road safety, save lives and reduce the devastating accidents involving fuel tankers and trailers that have become a recurring nightmare for motorists and communities.
Uzokwe added that the bill is expected to proceed to its second and third readings in the House as lawmakers push for tougher safety measures to make Nigeria’s highways safer.
