Court Judgment Barring VIO from Impounding Vehicles Applies Only in FCT, Lagos Government Warns Motorists

The Lagos State Government has clarified that a recent court judgment restricting Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) from impounding vehicles applies solely within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and does not affect Lagos.

The statement from the Ministry of Justice comes after reports misrepresenting the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, decision, which upheld a Federal High Court ruling that VIOs in the FCT lack statutory authority to stop, impound, or fine motorists.

Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, explained that the Abuja rulings are specific to the FCT and only bind parties involved in the case or states without vehicle inspection statutes. Lagos, he emphasized, has its own legal framework establishing the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) and outlining its enforcement powers.

“The process and procedure of VIS officers enforcing traffic and vehicle inspection laws on Lagos roads are fully lawful,” the ministry said. “Motorists should not be misled by misrepresentations of the Abuja judgments.”

The ministry urged drivers to cooperate with VIS officers and warned that any motorist who disobeys or assaults a VIS officer while performing official duties in Lagos may face arrest and prosecution.

Lagos State reaffirmed its commitment to professional, lawful, and respectful enforcement of traffic regulations, ensuring the safety and orderliness of its roads.