04 insight april 2012

FRSC

o

A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF FEDERAL ROAD SAFETY COMMISSION

www.frscinsight.com APRIL 2012

Car

Jacking HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

From The Editor-In-Chief

www.saferoadinnigeria.org

H

ave you ever wondered why God created women to nurture pregnancy for nine months before delivery?. Why cant women be pregnant for longer period, like 2 or 3 years, before delivery?. But do you think it would be better if women are only pregnant for only three months?. If God in his infinite wisdom created women to conceive and bore a child within 226 days (nine months), then He definitely knows that 9 months is apt for delivery. Rats deliver within 21 days. The female camel, another creature of God remains pregnant for 13 to 15 months (410 days) before delivery and this can be pretty tough, considering that female animals, unlike women lack antenatal care.

Astonishly there are even other animals with longer gestation period, including Whales and Dolphins who remain pregnant for between 17 to 19 months. The long gestation may be responsible for their clever intellect as is also typical of the elephants, who require two full years of pregnancy before birth. Sharks even take up to 3 or 3 and a half years of pregnancy before delivery. God therefore would not have made a mistake in making a woman to deliver after nine months of normal pregnancy, eventhough He has capacity to either shorten or elongate the period of pregnancy. The lesson here relates to what period should it take FRSC to fully transform into a World Class Organisation. We are all pregnant for the Corps’ transformation and our delivery is dependent on your perception of the importance of this transformation. Do you see your delivery gestation period as that of a cat, woman, camel, whales or even sharks?. This month’s edition of Insight is a reinforcement of the FRSC’s believe in transforming into a World Class Organisation. We therefore need to make the FRSC truly transform. We can do it.

In this edition you will read about carjacking and how to protect yourself, especially as a woman, when faced with this ugly situation. The danger associated with the misuse of the road is also discussed. You will also read other it resting stories like car safety checks and how to prevent and treat breast cancer. For beneficiaries of the Lokogoma Housing Project, you will definitely be interested in knowing how the Lokogoma Open Forum went. We served you all the details including when the project will be commissioned. Remember all previous editions of FRSC Insight are available on www.frscinsight.com

editorial

o

OC Oladele (DCC)

Head, Planning Advisory Unit Editor – In - Chief

FRSC

o

IN THIS EDITION ■ Car Jacking - pg 4 ■ Quotable Quotes - pg 9 ■ Load Safety Checks - pg 10 ■ The Embrio Concept - pg 12 ■ Lokogoma Estate Open Forum - pg 14 ■ Breast Cancer - pg 16 ■ One-On-One [An Interview] ... - pg 19

Copyright & Disclaimer .

The information contained in this Newsletter has been compiled by Federal Road Safety Corps [FRSC].

It provides general information only. Some photographs and graphics contained therein are only for dramatization (i.e. may not represent any member, client, partner, facilities, employee etc. of Federal Road Safety Corps). No responsibility is accepted for the correctness and completeness of the given information. .

Copyright © Federal Road Safety Commission. All rights reserved.

Contact Details Federal Road Safety Corps National Headquaters Olusegun Obasanjo Way, Zone 7, Wuse District.

PMB 125, Abuja, Nigeria 0700- CALL - FRSC 0700 - 2255 - 3772 0807- 769 - 0362 (Text Messages Only) Email: info@frsc.gov.ng Website: www.frsc.gov.ng

EDITORIAL BOARD Osita Chidoka Corps Marshal/Chief Executive Publisher

OC Oladele (DCC) Editor–In-Chief

KD Alegieuno (ARC) Editor

Members VO Ogunnupebi (ACC) AR Obagbemiro (CRC) CB Nwokolo (DRC) DO Enakireru (ARC) 0I IKOKU (ARC)

Lokogoma Housing Forum

O

n April 26, 2012, the Open Forum on Lokogoma Housing Project organised for members and stakeholders was held at the Lokogoma Estate, FCT, Abuja. The forum which was coordinated by the Co-operative Executives was aimed at building confidence among members by seeking solutions to existing problems hampering the completion of the project. .T h e L o ko g om a H o u s i ng Project started on January, 2009, by June of that same year, members, stakeholders and well wishers converged for the turning of sod. The Estate which covered over 19 hectares of land was designed for 346 units of a variety of models ranging from 2 bedroom semi-detached bungalow to 4 bedroom detached bungalow. The forum was formally opened by the ACM (MVA), Commander Charles Theophelus who represented the Corps Marshal and Chief Executive, Federal Road Safety Corps. The welcome address was delivered by the co-operative secretary general, Dr. GO Omiko (DCC) and the chairman of the co-operative.... See page 16

www.frscinsight.org

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

04

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

05

C

ARJACKING, car hijacking, car napping or car snatching is one of the fastest growing crimes in cities around the world; from Karachi to Lisbon and from Nairobi to Rio de Janeiro. According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, between 1993 and 2002, about 38,000 carjackings occurred annually in the United States. Sixty-eight percent of the carjackings that occurred between 1993 and 2002 took place at night.

Carjacking is a serious problem in both large cities and small towns where a criminal can simply jump into the driver's seat and attempt to rob the driver in a moment's notice. The U.S. Department of Justice reports that carjacking victimization rates are highest in urban areas, and a weapon is used in 74% of these incidences. Any attempts to resist a carjacker can prove fatal, so it's very important to learn how to keep yourself safe with a prevention plan.

South Africa, with a population one sixth the size of the United States, has an even higher rate of carjackings—more than 14,000 a year. After you have considered some examples, you will understand why many view being carjacked as one of the most feared crimes of all. The following are true experiences of individuals who live in South Africa’s largest city, Johannesburg. By reading their experiences, you may be helped to know what to do if you are ever carjacked or, better still, how to minimize the risk of ever becoming a victim.

TRUE-LIFE EXPERIENCES “My friend Susan and I had been sharing in the evangelizing work together for a year. One Wednesday, before driving to our next Bible study, we stopped for tea under a tree on a

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

06

residential road. Susan got out of the car to get the basket from the back. Just as she handed me my cup, two men appeared out of nowhere, one holding a gun to Susan’s neck. Shocked, I tried to get out of the car, but the other man pushed me back inside. There we were, two women forced into a car with two men driving us—I really felt that they would most probably rape or kill us.”—Anika, a young wife.

“I was driving my car at 7:00 a.m. on my way to work. I stopped at an intersection that is frequented by unemployed people seeking work. I did not pay any attention until someone pushed a gun into my neck through my open car window and said, ‘Get out, or I’ll shoot.’ That very minutes a traffic helicopter appeared overhead. Thinking it was the police, the carjacker pulled the trigger and ran. He shot me in the neck, severing my spinal cord. This left me paralyzed from the neck down. I cannot use my hands and legs, and I have no feeling in them.”—Barry, father of a teenage son.

“My wife, Lindsay, and I were about to go for lunch. I was waiting for her in my car. The car doors were locked, but the windows were slightly open because of the heat. I was looking ahead from the driver’s seat when two men came around the corner very casually. When they were about eight paces from the front of the car, they split up, one going to the left of the car and the other to the right. Suddenly, they were at the car doors pointing guns at me from both sides and shouting orders. After I started the car in obedience to their command, they screamed at me to get out and get in the back seat. The one drove the car while the other forced me to keep my head down.

‘What reason can you give me for not killing you?’ he asked. ‘I am one of Jehovah’s Witnesses,’ I replied. He kept talking about killing me, and I kept praying and thinking of my dear wife, wondering how she would react on seeing that her husband and car had disappeared.”—Alan, a travelling overseer and a parent.

These experiences show how quickly and unexpectedly carjacking can happen. They also illustrate common situations exploited by carjackers. In many places, it is no longer safe to wait or relax in a car parked on a residential road. Other dangerous places are intersections and the driveway to your home.

DEALING WITH THE AFTERMATH Thankfully, the experience of Susan and Anika had a happy ending. As they were being driven away by the carjackers, the two women began to explain the Bible study work they were doing. This seemed to prick the men’s consciences. “They apologized for what they were doing,” explains Anika, “but said that because of the times we live in, they are forced to steal and carjack to make a living. We explained why God allows poverty and suffering.” The Bible’s message touched the hearts of the two carjackers, and they decided to give back the money and wristwatches they had taken, assuring Susan and Anika that they would cause them no harm. “Then one of them started to give us instructions on how to prevent a future carjacking,” recalls Susan. “They made us promise,” adds Anika, “that we

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

07

would never again stop next to the road to have tea.” Then, just as the carjackers had told them, they stopped the vehicle, got out, and gratefully accepted some Bible literature, and let Susan and Anika drive away safely.

Alan, the travelling overseer, was ordered out of his vehicle when the carjackers arrived at an isolated place. Though he lost valuable possessions, he was grateful that he survived physically unharmed. “I think I came off lightly,” recalls Alan, “because I was cooperative and nonaggressive, and I did not panic. But certainly, I could have been more observant. I have learned from this incident that there is no time to relax one’s guard now that we are living so deep into the last days of Satan’s wicked system.” The next day, Alan and Lindsay went back to the same territory to continue preaching with the congregation they were assigned to serve. Explains Alan: “We prayed, and our eyes were everywhere for the whole day. It was not easy, but Jehovah gave us ‘power beyond what is normal.’”

The worst-affected victim, Barry, has been confined to a wheelchair for the past 11 years. Commendably, Barry has remained positive and has not allowed the experience to make him bitter. Measures taken by the authorities in South Africa have led to a reduction in carjackings. Still, they continue to occur and are increasing in other parts of the world. Below are some of the most common carjacking scenarios: ■ When the victim is stopped at a traffic light.

■ The carjacker pretends to be stranded.

■ The carjacker fakes an accident to get you out of your car.

■ The carjacker attacks the victim as they get in their car in parking garages, shopping mall and complex parking, and driveways.

Fortunately there are several simple ways you can protect yourself from being a carjacking statistic.

TIPS TO MINIMIZE THE RISK OF BEING CARJACKED ■ If you are driving in an area where carjacking have occurred, keep your car doors locked and your windows closed. This includes any time you are waiting for someone, taking a break from the road, or stopping at a red light. Carjackers simply slide in next to you when your guard is down, so it's imperative that the doors are locked at all times.

■ When slowing down to stop at an intersection, be alert for suspicious-looking people loitering on either side of the road.

■ Keeping a reasonable distance between you and the car in front of you will allow for easier manoeuvrability to escape from danger.

■ If a car bumps into the rear of your car, be cautious about getting out to inspect the damage. It might be a ruse. If an incident like this happens in a high-risk area, it would be safer to drive on to the nearest police station.

■ Be alert for strangers loitering near the entrance of your home. If you note such a situation, it would be safer to drive on and return home later, or you may decide to drive to the nearest police station.

■ If you have to wait in a parked car in a high-risk area or in an area where there are few people around, be alert to what is happening in front of you and behind you. If you suspect danger, start the car and drive around the block.

Stay alert at places carjackers like to strike; red lights, filling stations, ATM machines, parking lots, shopping centres, car washes, convenience stores, hotels, valet parking areas, fastfood drive-through, and outside of retail stores. Park carefully: Park under a light area, choose only well-lit spots and avoid

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

08

remote areas. When you’re returning to your car, always have your keys in your hand as you approach so you’re not fumbling around at your car door. If your car breaks down or is disabled in an accident and a stranger offers to help, do not open your window or door. If you don’t have a cell phone, ask them to call for help. Keeping your valuables out of sight: The sight of a large purse, laptop or bag in the front seat is the perfect trigger for a carjacking; the criminal has spotted his or her bounty, and you're putting yourself at risk by displaying the wares. Keep your purse or bag tucked under the seat and out of sight whenever possible so that the sight of it doesn't encourage a robbery.

Drive in the Fast Lane: Carjackers can't jump into a fast-moving car with ease, and you're at a higher risk for a carjacking when you're stuck in traffic, making frequent stops at intersections or stop signs, or find yourself following a slow moving vehicle such as a school bus or truck. Take the steps to change your route to avoid traffic and congestion whenever possible, and look for places where you can drive at least 60 Kilometre per hour.

Get Into Your Car When Nobody's Looking: Carjackers are on the prowl for anyone just getting into their car, and this is why parking lots are a top target area. If you sense that someone's following you or has their eye on you from afar, keep on moving! Whether this means returning back to the store or walking to a crowded area, look for a way to avoid your car until it's safe to approach your vehicle.

Focusing on What You're Doing: Avoid talking on your cell phone, reading or doing anything that is distracting you from the task at hand. Carjackers usually work in teams where they're looking for anyone who's let down their guard. As soon as they see you approaching your car, they can try and steal your car or even abduct you. Stay vigilant and focused so you're not putting yourself at risk because you had to talk with your best friend. Look around before you get in your car and before you get out of your car. Your errands are never so important that you don’t have three seconds to evaluate your surroundings. Always have your cell phone handy to call the Police.

Your safety boils down to being aware. You can’t afford to be oblivious. If someone is coming towards your car, you need to notice them ahead of time. Make use of your rear-view and side mirrors when you are stopped or in a parking lot.

DURING A CARJACKING In most carjacking situations, the attackers are interested only in the vehicle. Try to stay calm. Do not stare at the attacker as this may seem aggressive and cause them to harm you. There are two options during an attack—non-resistive, non-confrontational behaviour and resistive or confrontational behaviour.

Your reaction should be based on certain factors:  ■Type of attack ■Environment (isolated or public) ■Mental state of attacker (reasonable or nervous)

■Number of attackers ■Weapons ■Whether children are present.

In the non-confrontational situation, you would: ■Give up the vehicle freely. Listen carefully to all directions.

■ Make no quick or sudden movements that the attacker could construe as a counter attack.

■Always keeps your hands in plain view.

■ Tell the attacker of every move in advance.

■ Make the attacker aware if children are present. The attacker may be focused only on the driver and not know children are in the car.

In a resistive or confrontational response, you would make a decision to escape or attack the carjacker. Before doing so, consider: ■The mental state of the attacker.

■Possible avenues of escape.

■The number of attackers; there is usually more than one.

■The use of weapons. (Weapons are used in the majority of carjacking situations.)

AFTER THE ATTACK Always carry a cell phone or radio with you. If you are in a populated area, immediately go to a safe place. After an attack or an attempted attack, you might not be focused on your safety. Get to a safe place before contacting someone to report the incident.

REPORTING THE CRIME Describe the event. What time of day did it occur? Where did it happen? How did it happen? Who was involved? Describe the attacker(s). Without staring, try to note height, weight, scars or other marks, hair and eye colour, the presence of facial hair, build (slender, large), and complexion (dark, fair). Describe the attacker’s vehicle. If possible get the vehicle registration number, colour, make, model, and year, as well as any marks (scratches, dents, damage) and personal decorations (stickers, coloured wheels). The golden rule for descriptions is to give only that information you absolutely remember. If you are not sure, don’t guess!

CONCLUSION Avoidance is the best way to prevent an attack. Use your judgment to evaluate the situation and possible reactions.

Know safe areas to go to in an emergency. Always carry your cell phone. In most instances, it is safer to give up your vehicle.Non-confrontation is often the best response. The objective is not to thwart the criminal but to survive!

SOURCES: 1.United States Department of State Bureau of Diplomatic Security Publication. Reprinted August 2002.

2.http://www.retrivo-atd.com/protect-yourself-from-carjacking.php 3.http://www.retrivo-atd.com/protect-yourself-from-carjacking.php 4.http://www.howcast.com/videos/31956-How-To-Protect-Yourself-From-Carjacking 5.http://voices.yahoo.com/seven-ways-protect-yourself-carjacking-782869.html 6.http://womenofcaliber.wordpress.com/2009/06/26/protect-yourself-from-a-

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

09

quotes "If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward."

Martin Luther King, Jr. Those are a success who have lived well, laughed often, and loved much; who have gained the respect of intelligent people and the love of children, who have filled their niche and accomplished their task, who leave the world better than they found it, whether by a perfect poem or a rescued soul; who never lacked appreciation of the earth's beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best they had.

Ralph Waldo Emerson The dreamers are the saviors of the world. As the visible world is sustained by the invisible, so men, throughout all their trials and troubles, are nourished by the beautiful visions of their dreamers. Humanity cannot forget its dreamers; it cannot let their ideals fade and die. It lives in them; it knows them as the realities which it shall one day see and know.

James Allen Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.

Judy Garland The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace from that day. We cannot change our past, we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing that we

can do is play on the one string that we have and this string is, Attitude. I am convinced that life is ten percent what happens to me and ninety percent how I react to it. And so it is with you...We are in charge of our Attitudes.

Charles Swindoll You don't get to choose how you're going to die. Or when. But you can decide how you're going to live now.

Joan Baez

Decade of Action for Road Safety is attainable!

Let’s Join hands to create a Safe Road in Nigeria

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

LoadSafety

11

Checks

The safety of your load is as important as the safety of your vehicle. Get into the habit of carrying out these simple load safety checks before each journey.

BEFORE LOADING ■ Check the contents of your load. If it contains hazardous materials, you should know how to deal with them in an emergency. Always carry a fire extinguisher appropriate to your load. Check that: ■ Your vehicle is suitable for the load it is to carry.

■ The gross weight of your vehicle is within the legal (plated) limit.

■ The gross per axle is within the legal (plated) limit.

■ The length, width, and height of the load are within permitted limits.

LOAD SAFETY CHECKS Your load should be evenly distributed and secure on your vehicle.

LOADING THE VEHICLE Do not overload an individual axle or the vehicle. Overloading is dangerous. It will damage your vehicle and the road. Spread the weight along the length and across the width of the vehicle.

Any extra weight should be placed towards the rear of the vehicle and above an axle. This will help both your steering and braking performance.

SECURING LOADS Loose loads may slip whilst the vehicle is moving causing you to lose control. Always make sure that your load is secure before you move off.

Flat Bed Vehicles Most large loads are roped down. The method of roping depends on the shape of the load. Generally, ropes should cross the load between opposite rope hooks. For heavy equipment, chains and clamps are often used. DO NOT attach

chains to rope hooks. Pass the chains around the chassis of the vehicle. Make sure that they do not foul any vital parts, such as air lines, trailer cables, etc. Take care when locking clamps they snap shut very quickly. Any rope or chain ends should be trucked securely away so that they cannot come loose. Use lorry sheet to protect your load. Make sure that the sheets cover the whole load and are well tied down.

Box vans/Trailers Pack the individual items so that they prevent each other from moving or falling over. If in doubt, rope them down.

Tipper Vehicles Bulk loads, such as sand or gravel, tend to spread themselves evenly as the settle. Make sure that the load is no higher than the sides of the body. Fly sheet the load, if necessary, to prevent spillage and provide protection from the weather Wide and Long Loads Observe any local regulations regarding the marking of such loads. Make sure that any marker boards are easily seen by other drivers.

Livestock Loads When carrying livestock, it is best to keep them in individual compartments. Otherwise, they should be head-tied to the side of the vehicle.

Tankers Make sure that your tanker is suitable for the liquid it is to carry.

For example, milk tankers must not be used to carry fuel. Make sure that all compartment covers are shut.

ALL VEHICLES Check that all fastening are secure and any doors shut and preferably locked.

REMEMBER: Check your load – is it safe?

Culled from The African Highway Code; A guide for drivers of heavy goods vehicle

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

12

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

13

Have you heard or seen the latest technology? It is the EMBRIO ADVANCED CONCEPT. It is a one-wheeled leisure as well as a commuting vehicle for the year 2025. The technology is designed by the Canadian company called the Bombardier Recreational Products. Although the riding position is similar to that of a motorcycle, the vehicle uses sensors and gyroscopes to balance up to two passengers on a large single wheel whilst driving.

Although the vehicle will also remain stable when motionless, with two small front wheels deployed at speeds below 20 kilometres per hour. To move forward, the rider activates a trigger on the left handlebar. At a speed of 20 kilometres per hour the front wheels or “landing gear” pulls back so the rider is balanced on the large single wheel. To turn, the rider has to tilt to the left or right. The fuel cells running on hydrogen provides electricity for the electric motor which drives the single wheel machine.

the

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ■ DRIVE SYSTEM: Fuel cell electric ■ FUEL: Hydrogen ■ LENGTH: 1,240 mm (48.8 in) ■ WIDTH: 700 mm (27.5 in) ■ HEIGHT: 1,200 mm (47.5 in) ■ WEIGHT: 164 kg (360 lbs) ■ SEATING CAPACITY: 2

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

14

open forum

OPEN FORUM ON LOKOGOMA HOUSING PROJECT CONFIDENCE BUILDING GATHERING FOR MEMBERS AND STAKEHOLDERS OF THE FRSC HOUSING CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY ON THURSDAY 26 APRIL, 2012

O

n April 26, 2012, the Open Forum on Lokogoma Housing Project organised for members and stakeholders was held at the Lokogoma Estate, FCT, Abuja. The forum which was coordinated by the Co-operative Executives was aimed at building confidence among members by seeking solutions to existing problems hampering the completion of the project. The Lokogoma Housing Project started on January, 2009, by June of that same year, members, stakeholders and well wishers converged for the turning of sod. The Estate which covered over 19 hectares of land was designed for 346 units of a variety of models ranging from 2 bedroom semi-detached bungalow to 4 bedroom detached bungalow.

The forum was formally opened by the ACM (MVA), Commander Charles Theophelus who represented the Corps Marshal and Chief Executive, Federal Road Safety Corps. The welcome address was delivered by the co-operative secretary general, Dr. GO Omiko (DCC) and the chairman of the co-operative, Commander Olu-Mike Olagunju (CC) presented a report on the activities, prospects, challenges and way forward of the cooperative (FHCS). The Corps Secretary, JK Fanola (CC) moderated the Interactive Session. Some of the stakeholders that attended the programme were representatives from the United Bank of Africa (UBA), Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Stallion Homes among others. During the interactive session, pertinent questions were raised and addressed, suggestions were made and resolutions reached. The peak of the forum was the presentation of keys to some members/ beneficiaries.

HIGHLIGHTS PRESENTATIONS The chairman, FRSC Housing Co-operative Society, in his report conveyed the achievements of the cooperative since inception. Some of the achievements as highlighted by him were the Kubwa Housing Estate commissioned in 2005, the Masaka Housing Estate commissioned in 2009 and the ongoing Lokogoma Housing Estate which he said was at about 78.3% completed. As stated in his presentation, some of the stumbling

blocks that hindered the completion of the project within a given time frame of 18 months were unbudgeted cost, erratic cash flow, the high commercial interest rate being paid to UBA among others.

Mr Musa Aro, representing the Executive Secretary of Federal Government Staff Housing Loans Board, said that they would partner with FRSC staff by giving them loan at 3% interest rate.

He compared their interest with that of the Federal Mortgage Bank pegged at 6% interest rate. He added that the Board was ready to accept all application that would be sent to them from members of FHCS. The Secretary General of the co-operative Dr. GO Omiko (DCC) asserted that the forum was to present the state of affairs to members and stakeholders with the sole aim of charting the way forward in line with the FRSC Corporate Strategic Goal and the 13 behaviours of a leader.

KEY QUESTIONS & SUGGESTIONS BY MEMBERS Questions Some of the key questions asked were: ■ Is there an existing constitution that guides the operations of the co-operative?

■ With the array of engineers in the Corps can’t we make use of direct labour?

■ What are the efforts made to make the road motorable?

■ When will the uncompleted buildings be completed?

■ Why take a short term loan to finance a long term project?

■ Why take a commercial loan for a welfare/co-operative housing project?

■ Why was everybody not carried along before taken the UBA loan?

Observations The members made the following suggestions; ■ That members/beneficiaries to raise funds by themselves since funding was the problem of the project

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

15

■ The term of offer was too harsh ie, it gave the committee power to review the prices at the expense of the members  The committee should put the project on hold and tackle the problems of loans ■ Keys should be released to the owners ■ We are dissatisfied with the exco and there is need to replace them ■ That UBA did not advise the Committee by allowing the committee to take a commercial loan knowing that it was a welfare scheme ■ The problem of debt servicing as a result of the associated high interest rate ANSWERS TO SOME OF THE KEY QUESTIONS The chairman in his response provided answers to questions raised. Some of the responses were: ■ On the constitution: The Society has a constitution since its inception. The constitution shall be sent to staff in soft copies.

■ On the Use of direct Labour: though it was one of the options, FCDA did not approve of it, the reason was because FRSC engineers were not registered. They said that a project of such magnitude required registered engineers. It was FCDA that screened the consultants.

■ On making the road motorable: lots of resources have been spent in making the road motorable. With the emergence of other estate it will be a collective effort. For now we are channelling our energy into completing this project.

RESOLUTIONS In summary, the forum acknowledged that members did not constitute a quorum to make major decisions. However, based on observations and questions raised the following resolutions were reached; ■ Harmonise all loans collected from the various loan houses ■ The Executives should officially approach UBA to explore available windows especially as it affects the high interest rate ■ The executives should enhance communications by frequently organising such open forum ■ The executives should discuss with the various stakeholders with respect of keys to be delivered to beneficiaries who are yet to complete payment

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

16

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

17

breast

C

Cancer

ancer which is a malignant tumour or growth is said to be caused by uncontrollable multiplication of cells that destroys healthy tissues in the body. It remains one of the deadly diseases in the world. The Corps Medical & Rescue Office writes on Breast Cancer.

■ Lumps in the breast should be reported immediately.

■ Bloody discharge from the breast nipple.

■ Swollen lymph modes in the armpit.

■ There may be weight loss, cough, chest pains and fever.

■ The only way to make a positive diagnosis on a suspected

BREAST CANCER

lump is by carrying out a biopsy and microscopic examination of the breast cells.

■ Breast cancer affects the glandular tissues of the breast.

■ This occurs when the normal process of cell growth breaks down, resulting in abnormal cells which multiply at rapid rate.

■ Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women.

It can also occur in men, though uncommon. It is 100 times common in women compared to men.

RISK FACTORS ■ Women with long menstrual history i.e. menstrual periods that started before 12 years and ended after age 50.

■ Women who never give birth or who waited until after 30 years to have children.

■ Women who have used birth control pills.

■ Women who have been treated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

■ Women with a history of breast cancer in the family are also at a greater risk.

■ Breast cancer seems to be common in women who do not exercise regularly and are unable to maintain a healthy body weight.

■ Alcohol consumption has also been linked to increased risk for breast cancer.

SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS It is important to note that a lump in the breast is no sure sign of a cancer. Every breast is lumpy to some degree and the lumpiness becomes more pronounced shortly before menstruation.

SYMPTOMS

FACTORS THAT AID EARLY DETECTION AND DIAGNOSIS ■ Annual breast examination performed by a health professional.

■ Monthly breast self examination.

■ Mammography which is an x-ray examination of the breast. It can detect breast tumours in an early stage, before they are large enough to be felt.

TREATMENT Treatment of breast cancer depends on the woman’s age and health as well as the type, extent, and location of the tumour.

■ Surgery ■ Radiation therapy ■ Chemotherapy with anti-cancer drugs.

■Hormone therapy ■ Treatment usually employs a combination of the above outlined modalities.

CONCLUSION ■ Periodic self examination and yearly examination by health professionals is key to early detection and successful treatment of breast cancer.

■ Don’t hesitate to report to the doctor whenever you noticed a breast lump. That action can save your life.

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

18

S

imply call me road. I am created to be strong, to make things easy especially for those of you with four legs and above. I am everywhere, always in one place. Though you hates me whenever am ugly. I know you always love me when I maintain my black beauty with little or no blemish.

all about me

I have a very large heart that accommodates all manner of people; I allow people with one leg in front and one leg at the back, people with four legs and above to walk, run and play on top of me. I also allow people to create duplicate of me all over the world. But this large heart has sometimes stopped me from reprimanding those who intentionally pour dirt on my body. I really wish I could reduce my heart from large to small.

But despite my large heart, the people with four legs and above always push me to the wall, which brings out the ugly side of me. When I say the ugly side of me, I mean that I can kill and destroy that some of you feel it is my stock in trade. What are those things you do to me that often make me go berserk and consequently make me hurts you?

■ Some of you with four legs and above often time carry too much load on your heads and run on top of me with reckless abundance. And because of these too much loads, my body at times hurts me that I have to wriggle it a little which ends up destroying you. When in a very bad mood, I put a permanent stop to your journey. Of course you know what I mean.

■ Some of you allow drunks to ride on your back, pushing you recklessly on top of me, most especially whenever I am asleep.

What do you expect? I react by punishing you and the aliens on your back.

■ Every time you run over me beyond the speed approved by my body depending on where I am, I get very upset that I have to turn you over until you are defaced. Yes, you don’t have to blame me, if you don’t care how I feel; there is no way you expect me to care about you.

■ The most annoying of it all, is that some of you will see your fellow running towards you, instead of you to give way, you will begin to drag with such a fellow. What usually happens after then is another story.

■ I have a lot to talk about myself, but to cut the story short, whatever happens to you is not my fault but yours. I know most of you know much about me just as some you think that my name is synonymous to wickedness. POINT-OF-CORRECTION, my name also means “THE WAY TO ACHIEVING GREATNESS” as long as you abide with rule when making use of me.

A word of warning... Drivers out there, for the sake of your lives, be careful the way you drive, never drink before driving, be careful how you load your cars, stop making calls while driving, and always be patient. I am not asking for too much, I am only expressing my love for all sweet Nigerians.

“A WORD IS ENOUGH FOR THE WISE”. Be warned! Never say I did not say so.

one-on-one

ONE When Akpata Kahinde walked into the PAU office with two books in his hand, my first impression was that he was holding the books earlier published by him but the surprise came when he told me that they were his recent publications. Did I hear you say that is awesome! Yes, it is awesome. Immediately I seek the approval of the Editor-InChief to grant him an interview. Are you a writer with an unpublished work? Are you an individual who have the writing skills in you yet afraid to explore this area then perhaps this interview will spur your spirit to act...

ONE May we meet you?

My name is Akpata Tunde Kahinde from Ishan, Ekiti State, Nigeria and I am an Assistant Route Commander currently. I am currently a Staff Officer, Administration in the Safety Engineering department in the Federal Road Safety Corps. I obtained HND in Banking and Finance, Post Graduate Diploma, Teachers Education, University of Ibadan, Masters in Managerial Psychology and Masters in Transport Management, Ladoke Akintola, University of Technology, Ogbomosho.

When and why did you begin writing?

2009. I have been writing essays and features in the newspaper but I started writing literatures in 2009.

an interview

FRSC INSIGHT APRIL 2012

21

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I considered myself a writer when I wrote my 3rd book titled Crisis Management and Intervention strategies What inspired you to write your first book?

I was inspired to contribute my quota in reduction of traffic crashes in Nigeria and also to freely express my perception about my environment through my God given talent Do you have a specific writing style?

Yes, I do, in my writing style I like to bring out the point inherent in an issue. Some writers write in a prose like literature but I prefer to draw out a comprehensive view of my subject, highlighting the merit and demerit and conclusively making my readers to judge.

How did you come up with the title of your latest books?

As you have rightly observed, my two latest books were circumstantial, the first one titled, Crises Management and Intervention Strategies came due to my resolution to reach out to the wider society and also the acceptability of my first two books by other agencies aside FRSC. Crisis Management was viewed in the perspective that FRSC is not the only organisation that manages crises, it is an integral part of the wider organisation that manages crises. Coincidentally, my 4th book titled, Terrorism Threats and Emergency management was just a topic in crisis management as the book was getting too voluminous, my colleagues advised me to separate the two subjects subsequently, I came out with the tow books separately.

Is there a message in your books that you want readers to grasp?

Yes, in all my books there are messages. In the Principle of Driving Intelligence it basically teaches people on rudiment of driving while, my work on Psychology of Driving highlights people’s behaviour and the desirable attitude while driving.

Crisis management discusses crises in general and it mirrors on subjects like crowd management, self defence strategy, intelligence and investigation crisis, crisis communication and other intervention strategies. The latest one titled Terrorism, highlights various strategies that can be used to prevent terrorism and survive the threats. It discusses topics like kidnapping, arm robbery, bombing, arms trafficking and its dangers, abuse, rape, high jacking and other forms of terrorism that are prevalent in the society especially in the recent times.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

It might be too early because the books are just out; I am waiting for people’s constructive criticism to provide an insight for things that need to be changed

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

There are many things, I don’t want to be hypocritical about it, fund has been the major challenge for example, my third book came out with the fourth due to lack of fund. Aside this, in adequate materials in terms of books and previous research work served as hindrances. For example, I wrote on crowd management due to the problem of stampede that happened in most gathering lately especially the one that occurred at Liberation Stadium, Port Harcourt, 2011. When I was conducting the research, I hardly see any book on crowd management written by a Nigerian while books on terrorism are extremely scarce in the libraries therefore I needed to go extra miles in getting materials.

Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

Yes I do, I need to travel, I need to invest both in time, money and other materials because the era of arm chair writers has ended in the present competitive society.

In the cause of your writing what new thing have you learnt?

I learnt to be patient while writing. I also learnt to explore many avenues before coming out with a book. For instance, I always believe that crises are bad but in the cause of writing on crisis, I found out that crisis provide both threats and opportunities.

The result depends on the perception and the coping mechanism of individuals.

Do you have any advice for other writers?

My advice is that other writers should brace up the courage to go on with their writing because there are many discouragements while sourcing for funds, materials even from peers. I also strongly advice them to be committed and sacrificial because writing involves sacrifice of time and money through self denial and discipline.

How many publications do have to your name?

Four Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

I want to encourage my readers to be open minded while they journey through the books and also to tell them that my doors are open for advice and suggestion because there is no monopoly of knowledge.