The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a landmark ruling that restricts the powers of the Directorate of Road Traffic Services, commonly referred to as the Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO).
This decision prohibits the agency from stopping vehicles, seizing them, or imposing fines on drivers.
On Wednesday, Justice Evelyn Maha made this ruling in a fundamental rights enforcement case identified as FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023, initiated by human rights advocate and public-interest lawyer, Abubakar Marshal.
In her judgment, Justice Maha supported Marshal’s claim that the VIO and its personnel do not possess the legal authority to halt, seize, or confiscate vehicles, nor to levy fines against motorists.
The suit named several respondents, including the Director of Road Transport, the Area Commander and Team Leader of VIO in Jabi, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Justice Maha stated, “The actions of the first to fourth respondents, under the control of the fifth respondent, are not empowered by any law or statute to stop, impound, or confiscate the vehicles of motorists or impose fines on them.” This statement underlines the court’s commitment to uphold the rule of law.
Furthermore, the court issued a restraining order against these respondents, preventing them and their agents from impounding or seizing vehicles or imposing fines. The judge condemned such actions as wrongful, oppressive, and unlawful.
In addition to this, the ruling includes a permanent injunction designed to protect the rights of Nigerians. It affirms their freedom of movement, the presumption of innocence, and their right to property.
