Court Bans VIO and Others from Stopping and Confiscating Vehicles
The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a landmark ruling preventing the Directorate of Road Traffic Services, also known as VIO, from stopping vehicles, impounding them, or imposing fines on motorists. The judgment was delivered on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, by Justice Evelyn Maha.
The case, which involved a fundamental rights enforcement suit (FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023), was brought by human rights lawyer Abubakar Marshal. The ruling affects the Director of Road Transport, the Area Commander, Jabi, the Team Leader, Jabi, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), who were all named as respondents.
In her judgment, Justice Maha upheld the argument that the respondents do not have the legal authority to stop, confiscate, or fine vehicles. The court found that no existing law grants them such powers, and that their actions were oppressive and unlawful.
An order was issued restraining the respondents and their agents from confiscating or impounding vehicles or imposing fines on motorists. Justice Maha also granted a perpetual injunction preventing the respondents from infringing on Nigerians’ rights to freedom of movement, presumption of innocence, and property ownership without lawful justification.
The ruling is seen as a significant step in protecting the rights of motorists and ensuring that enforcement agencies operate within the bounds of the law.