Bad market for VIO as Court prohibits Seizing of Vehicles, fines on Motorists

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.