The Directorate of Road Traffic Services and Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) have no legal authority to confiscate vehicles or impose fines on motorists, the Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled
In a judgement delivered by Justice Nkeonye Maha, the court held that only a court of competent jurisdiction can fine or sanction motorists for traffic violations.

The ruling came in response to a suit filed by public interest lawyer, Mr. Abubakar Marshal. Justice Maha granted the requested reliefs, declaring that actions such as stopping, impounding, or fining motorists by the VIO were illegal and oppressive. The court also issued a perpetual injunction restraining the VIO from infringing on the rights of Nigerians, including their freedom of movement and the right to own property.

The judgement clarified that the VIO, which operates under the Federal Capital Territory’s authority, lacks the statutory power to enforce fines or vehicle seizures. Only a court of law can impose such penalties.

On the occasion of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary, Senator Hajiya Ireti Heebah Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has offered her congratulations to residents and called for a moment of reflection on the nation’s founding principles.

In her message, Senator Kingibe urged Nigerians to honor the legacies of notable figures such as Dr. Herbert Macauley, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Ahmadu Bello, and Chief Obafemi Awolowo, emphasizing their contributions to Nigeria’s journey toward independence.
Senior Special Assistant to the Senator on Media, Kennedy Mbele in a statement quoted the senator to have encouraged all citizens to embrace the values of patience, sacrifice, and resilience, particularly in light of current challenges facing the nation as she recognized the significance of the anniversary as a key milestone in the country’s democratic governance.

“Let us seize this opportunity to pray for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria, as we reflect on our shared struggles and aspirations,” she stated.

Senator Kingibe also reiterated her dedication to ongoing intervention programs and effective representation aimed at fostering the growth and development of the FCT. She expressed optimism that through collective efforts, residents can work toward a brighter future for the capital and the nation as a whole.
Senator Kingibe’s message highlighted the importance of unity and commitment to building a better Nigeria.

In celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary, the Federal Government has launched 64 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, demonstrating its commitment to providing affordable and environmentally friendly transportation for citizens.
This unveiling, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, was led by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.
Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga in a statement in a statement indicated that the event was attended by key government officials, including the Honourable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Mohammed Idris Malagi, and Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande Wisdom.

The launch marks the first phase of a larger initiative to distribute over 500 CNG and 100 electric buses to labour and student unions across the country, aimed at improving public transport nationwide the statement explained.

Edun in his speech highlighted that the initiative is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s promise to support Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens amidst recent macroeconomic reforms.

“The unveiling of these 64 buses is a symbolic gesture in honour of our nation’s 64th Independence Anniversary, but it represents just the beginning. Hundreds more buses are on order, with deliveries continuing,” Edun stated.

He emphasized that the move is central to Nigeria’s strategy of transitioning to cleaner, more affordable energy, particularly in the mass transit sector. CNG-powered vehicles offer significant savings, with fuelling costs up to 70% lower than those of petrol-powered vehicles.

“A CNG vehicle costs about one-third of what it takes to fuel a petrol vehicle. Instead of spending 50,000 Naira to fill a tank, Nigerians will pay around 15,000 Naira with CNG. This is a substantial step towards lowering the cost of living, curbing inflation, and improving the quality of life for Nigerians,” Edun explained.

The statement indicated that the rollout of the CNG buses was not only aimed st reducing public transportation costs but also is in tandem with Nigeria’s efforts to combat climate change, promote cleaner energy, and foster sustainable economic growth.