Mr Dipo Fagbamila, State Coordinator of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) Special Marshals, recently appeared on Parrot Xtra Ayekooto on Splash 105.5FM, hosted by Ambassador Olayinka Agboola.
In the interview, he discussed the role of Special Marshals in traffic regulation, their voluntary service, recruitment and training processes, challenges faced on the roads, and measures being implemented to curb lawlessness among motorists across Oyo State. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to educate drivers, enforce traffic discipline, and ensure accountability for all road users.
What does it take to become an OYRTMA Special Marshal, and are members paid for their service?
We are not paid. It is a voluntary service. The first thing required is passion. Standing on the road under the sun for long hours is not easy at all. Without passion, one can easily get discouraged.
This is a service to humanity, everything we do is in the interest of the people. That is the mindset anyone who wants to join us must have.
What are the recruitment requirements for Special Marshals?
We look for people who are educated and who understand the rudiments of traffic management. Before anyone is admitted, we interact with the person to determine if they are suitable for the role.
There have been reports of some Marshals operating without valid vehicle licences. How is this addressed?
Yes, we are aware. We constantly remind our members that you cannot enforce the law and become a victim of the same offence. It is very important for officers to lead by example.
Why do many drivers struggle to maintain lanes, particularly at junctions, and how do you respond?
We will never get tired of enlightening motorists. However, we also do not overlook misconduct. Once drivers go beyond acceptable limits, OYRTMA takes up their case. Under the leadership of Adekoya Adesagba, there is no longer roadside settlement. Offenders are taken to the office, and the good news is that there is a mobile court domiciled at the OYRTMA office, ensuring speedy dispensation of justice.
Can Special Marshals arrest offenders?
No, we cannot. Our duty is to alert the regular marshals and hand over offenders to them for proper action.
Considering many of you have white-collar jobs, have Special Marshals received adequate training?
Yes. After our inauguration on 29 July 2024, we underwent at least two major training sessions. We were trained on road regulations, safety precautions, first aid, and accident prevention.
Are Special Marshals deployed across all local government areas in Oyo State?
Yes, we have Special Marshals in all 33 local government areas of the state.
How can lawlessness on the roads and in society generally be curtailed?
First, offenders must be arrested. When people are not held accountable, they continue to break the law.
Secondly, advocacy is important, though it is not enough on its own. We appreciate Parrot Xtra for providing this platform to enlighten motorists. We urge road users to obey traffic laws, not just for others, but for their own safety.
We also visit motor parks regularly to educate drivers on the dangers of overspeeding, the use of bad tyres, and operating faulty vehicles.
The recklessness of Okada riders, Micra drivers, and tricycle operators in Ibadan has been noted. What measures are in place to address this?
As I mentioned earlier, we visit garages to educate them and also run radio jingles to promote safety awareness.
Is there a working relationship between OYRTMA and park managers to enforce traffic rules?
Yes. We recently held a meeting with their chairman to enlighten them on safety precautions and traffic regulations.
Many influential individuals misuse sirens or cover number plates. Does leadership by example matter?
Absolutely. Before I became a Special Marshal, I noticed how some people park indiscriminately and become hostile when corrected. Such actions create bottlenecks and cause traffic congestion. Now, anyone caught violating traffic laws regardless of status will face the consequences.
Several traffic lights in Ibadan are not functioning properly. Is the government aware and what is being done?
Yes, the government is aware. Some areas like Idi-Ape and the Civic Centre axis still have functional streetlights. However, in other areas, the lights are missing because they were vandalised or removed by individuals.
