The Abuja Division of the Federal High Court has barred the Directorate of Road Services, commonly known as VIO, from confiscating vehicles or imposing fines on Nigerians for road traffic violations.
Justice Nkeonye Evelyn Maha delivered the judgment on October 2, 2024, in the case FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023, filed by rights attorney Abubakar Marshal of Falana and Falana Chambers.
The judgment significantly limits the powers of the VIO, one of Nigeria’s most feared road traffic enforcers, and brings relief to millions of motorists nationwide.
According to Justice Maha, VIO officers lack the legal authority to stop, impound, or confiscate vehicles, or impose fines on motorists.
This ruling does not affect the Federal Road Safety Corps, which remains Nigeria’s primary road traffic marshal body.
The court’s order specifically prohibits the VIO, its agents, and affiliates from violating Nigerians’ rights to freedom of movement, presumption of innocence, and property ownership without lawful justification.
The VIO’s response to the judgment is pending, as a spokesman has yet to comment on the ruling.
Only authorized agencies, like the Federal Road Safety Corps, can enforce traffic laws and regulate road safety in Nigeria.
The FRSC has been empowered by law to arrest and prosecute traffic offenders, and its special marshals have the same powers as regular marshals to manage traffic
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