Federal High Court Restricts VIOs from Imposing Fines on Motorists

A Federal High Court in Abuja has delivered a significant judgment, limiting the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (VIO)’s authority.

On October 2, Justice Evelyn Maha ruled in favor of human rights activist Abubakar Marshal’s fundamental rights enforcement suit (FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023).

The court ruled that VIO officials cannot stop vehicles on the road, impound or confiscate them, or impose fines on motorists. This decision applies to the Director of Road Transport, Area Commander in Jabi, Team Leader in Jabi, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Justice Maha declared VIO’s actions unlawful, lacking statutory backing. The court issued a restraining order and perpetual injunction to protect Nigerians’ rights, including freedom of movement, presumption of innocence, and property ownership.

This landmark decision aims to safeguard motorists’ rights and regulate traffic enforcement practices in Nigeria.