Abuja, Nigeria – February 19, 2025
Despite a subsisting court order halting its e-ticketing operations, officials of the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) in Abuja have resumed enforcement activities across major roads in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Commuters and motorists were caught off guard as VIO officers stormed key highways, issuing fines and impounding vehicles for alleged violations.
Eyewitnesses reported that the VIO operatives set up checkpoints along major routes, including the Kubwa Expressway, Airport Road, and Gwarinpa, demanding digital compliance from drivers. Several motorists expressed frustration, questioning the legality of the operation.
A commercial driver, Usman Ibrahim, lamented the situation, saying, “We heard that the court stopped them from enforcing e-ticketing, yet they are back on the roads harassing us. Where is the rule of law?”
Legal experts have criticized the VIO’s defiance of the court order, with Barrister Tunde Adebayo describing the move as “a blatant disregard for judicial authority.” He called on the government to intervene and ensure that agencies respect due process.
Attempts to reach the VIO spokesperson for comments were unsuccessful, as calls and messages went unanswered. However, an anonymous official hinted that the directive to resume enforcement came from higher authorities, despite the legal proceedings.
Meanwhile, the FCT High Court is expected to issue a ruling on the matter in the coming days, as affected motorists prepare to challenge the VIO’s actions.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
