Accra: Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, has urged road users to adhere strictly to road safety regulations to help reduce crashes, injuries, and deaths ahead of the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. He emphasized that ensuring safety on the roads is a collective responsibility and urged drivers, motorcyclists, and pedestrians to be mindful and disciplined to protect lives.
According to Ghana News Agency, Sheikh Sharubutu provided this advice during a visit from the Management of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) at his residence in Accra. The visit was part of efforts to extend felicitations during the Ramadan fasting period and discuss strategies for public sensitization ahead of the Muslim festival. The Chief Imam stressed that safeguarding lives on the road is crucial for national development and progress, urging everyone to be cautious to improve safety and peace.
The Chief Imam prayed for Allah's guidance and protection for the nation, advocating for continued peace and harmony among all citizens. He highlighted the importance of unity among different faiths, stating, "There is no difference between Muslims and Christians, irrespective of our faith because we all proceed from one father, Adam. Let us live in peace and love each other." Sheikh Sharubutu also commended the NRSA for its continuous efforts to minimize road crashes and encouraged motorists to avoid dangerous driving behaviors.
Mr. Joshua Quist, the Greater Accra Regional Director of the NRSA, noted that the visit was part of the Authority's stakeholder engagement strategy aimed at strengthening collaboration with key national figures to promote road safety awareness. He acknowledged the Chief Imam's longstanding role as an ambassador for road safety and a critical partner in the Authority's public education efforts.
Mr. Quist expressed concern over the rising trend of road crashes and fatalities, revealing that road traffic deaths had increased from 2,494 in 2024 to 2,949 currently. Pedestrian knockdowns had also risen from 2,394 to 2,561 within the same period. He highlighted that motorcycle-related crashes were among the leading contributors to road fatalities, with 226 out of the 420 deaths recorded in the Greater Accra Region in 2025 being motorcycle-related, representing approximately 54 percent.
The Regional Director affirmed that the Authority would continue collaborating with the Chief Imam and other stakeholders to intensify public education and reduce road crashes, injuries, and fatalities. During the visit, the NRSA delegation presented GHS5,000 and assorted items to support the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations and requested prayers for improved road safety across the country. The Chief Imam offered prayers for the nation and for safer roads.