Lawmakers Push for Ban on Alcohol and Drug Sales at Motor Parks
The House of Representatives has urged all levels of government—federal, state, and local—to ban the sale of alcohol, drugs, and other psychoactive substances at motor parks across Nigeria.
The lawmakers also called on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to intensify its efforts in motor parks nationwide, targeting both dealers and consumers of illegal substances.
This appeal came after Rep. Abbas Adigun introduced a motion during Thursday’s plenary session, highlighting how motor parks have become hubs for alcohol and drug sales, with drivers often consuming these substances before starting their journeys, putting passenger safety at risk.
Rep. Adigun noted that the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) attributes 90% of road accidents in the country to factors such as alcohol and drug use. He pointed out that consuming these substances impairs driving ability, judgment, and vision, leading to tragic losses of life and property.
He explained that while alcohol is openly available at motor parks, narcotics are sold and used more discreetly. Many drivers consume these substances before driving, endangering both passengers and pedestrians. Rep. Adigun emphasized that in many countries, alcohol and drugs are restricted to bars rather than public transport hubs.
The House passed the motion, calling for an immediate ban on alcohol and drug sales around motor parks and urging the FRSC to conduct random tests on drivers to ensure sobriety. Additionally, the House encouraged private transport operators to prohibit alcohol sales within their parks.
