Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has acknowledged public complaints about the high-handed enforcement practices of the State Road Traffic Agency (BAROTA) and has urged the agency to adopt a more lenient approach in its operations.
The governor issued this warning while commissioning and handing over two heavy-duty vehicles and an ambulance to the agency at the Government House.
While commending BAROTA for its performance within a short period of its establishment, Mohammed emphasized the need for the agency to exercise fairness and empathy in its operations.
“I have my ears to the ground, and I have received complaints about the harsh imposition of fines on offenders. Please be considerate — focus on educating and enlightening road users about the laws rather than just penalizing them,” the governor stated.
He further advised, “While ignorance of the law is no excuse, advocacy is key. You don’t have to use force, especially on villagers who may not fully understand your role.
“Engage in sensitization efforts to help them comply voluntarily.”
The governor also lauded BAROTA marshals for ensuring smooth traffic flow across markets in the state, noting that their impact is being felt beyond their current numbers.
“You operate as though you are more than the number we commissioned, and I am impressed. However, I urge you to intensify public awareness efforts so that people can appreciate your importance on the roads,” he added.
He further charged the agency’s management to make proper use of the newly provided vehicles, assuring them of his administration’s continued support to enhance their effectiveness.
Speaking earlier, the Director General of BAROTA, Air Commodore Tijjani Baba Gamawa (Rtd), expressed gratitude to the governor for his unwavering support.
He said the newly acquired vehicles would significantly improve the agency’s operational capacity.
The DG also revealed that the governor has approved the recruitment of additional personnel before the end of 2025 to strengthen BAROTA’s presence and efficiency across the state.
Meanwhile, leaders of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), and market associations commended the governor for establishing BAROTA.
They noted that the agency has brought much-needed order to the transport sector, particularly in addressing issues of congestion and blocked streets.