The Ebonyi State Government has appealed to members of the public to remain calm over a viral video showing an incident involving a member of Governor Francis Nwifuru's convoy, saying the circumstances surrounding the occurrence are still being reviewed.
The government said while the video has generated widespread public reactions on social media, it is important for Nigerians to avoid drawing conclusions based on short video clips, noting that such recordings often capture only a fraction of events and may not present the full sequence of what transpired.
In a media statement issued on Thursday by the Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Leo Ekene Oketa, the government expressed concern over the incident and conveyed its sympathy to everyone affected.
It particularly wished the injured advance rider a speedy recovery, while expressing gratitude that no lives were lost in the incident.
"Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the incident. We wish the injured advance rider a full and speedy recovery and are grateful that no lives were lost," the statement read.
The government explained that official security convoys, ambulances, fire service vehicles and other authorised emergency response units operate under established procedures designed to protect lives, maintain public safety and ensure the continuity of essential government and emergency operations.
According to the statement, advance riders and convoy personnel are deployed to alert road users, secure intersections where necessary and create safe passage, not only for the principal but also to minimise the risk of accidents involving members of the convoy and the public.
The government further reminded motorists that the law requires road users to obey lawful traffic directives issued by police officers and other authorised traffic officials, stressing that cooperation with emergency and security personnel remains both a legal obligation and a civic responsibility.
It noted that compliance with traffic instructions during emergency and security operations helps to prevent avoidable tragedies and enables life-saving services to function effectively.
Reaffirming Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru's commitment to the protection of lives and the rule of law, the government said the governor has consistently maintained that professionalism, respect for the law and the sanctity of human life must remain the guiding principles of public service.
While assuring that the incident is being reviewed, the government urged all motorists to remain vigilant, exercise patience and comply with lawful directives whenever they encounter ambulances, fire service vehicles, security convoys or other authorised emergency response vehicles on the road.
It emphasised that road safety is a collective responsibility, adding that a few moments of caution and cooperation can help save lives and prevent unnecessary accidents.
