The Federal High Court in Abuja has permanently prohibited the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (also known as the Vehicle Inspection Office, or VIO) from stopping, impounding, or confiscating vehicles and imposing fines on motorists.
In a ruling delivered on Wednesday, Justice Evelyn Maha issued this perpetual order while deciding on a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by human rights activist and attorney, Abubakar Marshal. The case, with the reference FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023, listed the Director of Road Transport, the Area Commander and Team Leader from Jabi, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as respondents.
Justice Maha ruled that there is no legal basis granting the respondents—who operate under the authority of the FCT Minister—the power to stop or impound vehicles, confiscate motorists’ property, or impose fines. She labeled such actions as oppressive, unlawful, and a violation of citizens’ rights.
In addition, the court issued a perpetual injunction, forbidding the respondents or their agents from continuing to violate the rights of Nigerians, including freedom of movement, the presumption of innocence, and the right to own property.
