The Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, in Abia State, Ngozi Ezeoma, has said drivers should not be issued or have their licences renewed without first establishing that their vision is adequate for safe driving.
Ezeoma made the call in Umuahia on Thursday during the World Sight Day event organised by the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau.
Describing eye diseases and impaired vision as major factors contributing to road crashes in Abia State, Ezeoma expressed concern that drivers who neglect their eye health endanger their lives and those of their passengers.
She urged licensing personnel not to compromise professional standards but to ensure that drivers with impaired vision obtain corrective lenses or receive further medical attention before their licences are renewed.
“I wish to appeal to all relevant agencies and licensing personnel involved in this process to uphold the integrity of this assessment,” the FRSC commander said.
Ezeoma commended the Abia State Government for establishing an eye screening centre at the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal, saying the initiative would help save the lives of road users. She also warned drivers against alcohol abuse and the use of illicit drugs.
Earlier, the Administrator of the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau, Dr Betty Emeka Obasi, expressed concern over the activities of some traditional practitioners allegedly masquerading as eye doctors in communities across the state.
Obasi said 25 eye screening centres had been established across Abia State. She also disclosed that two young patients had lost their sight after seeking treatment from traditional practitioners.
Unveiling the eye screening centre at the Nnenna Oti Central Bus Terminal, Governor Alex Otti, represented by his deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, urged residents to prioritise their eye health.
FRSC warns against issuing drivers’ licences without eye tests