The Nigerian Bar Association's Human Rights Committee in Bwari has issued a strong seven-day ultimatum to the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) to immediately withdraw from Federal Capital Territory roads.
Court Order Defied by Traffic Officials
In a statement signed by Chairperson Anayisi Agnes Fashe-Omuya and Secretary M.O. Idam, the committee expressed shock at witnessing VIO operatives returning to major Abuja roads despite a clear Federal High Court injunction prohibiting their activities.
The legal body referenced the landmark judgment in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023 - Mr Marshal Abubakar v. Directorate of Road Traffic Services & 4 Ors. where Justice Evelyn Maha ruled that VIO officers lack constitutional authority to stop vehicles, inspect motorists, or impose fines.
Legal Consequences for Non-Compliance
The committee has officially written to the VIO Directorate demanding full compliance with the court ruling. The letter instructs the agency to immediately pull its officers off FCT highways and cease all enforcement operations.
If the VIO fails to comply within seven days, the NBA Bwari Human Rights Committee will file contempt proceedings against the Directorate and pursue all available legal options to enforce the court's ruling.
Broader Implications for Rule of Law
The committee warned that society risks descending into "anarchy and chaos" when government agencies selectively choose which court orders to obey. They emphasized that the VIO's continued presence on roads represents a blatant disregard for the judiciary and poses a serious challenge to the rule of law.
While Abuja motorists welcomed the original court ruling, authorities in Lagos State have maintained that the judgment doesn't apply to their jurisdiction. Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, cited the Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018 that explicitly empowers VIOs in Lagos to enforce traffic regulations.
The committee urged relevant authorities to act swiftly, respect judicial authority, and restore public confidence in lawful governance throughout the Federal Capital Territory.
