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Federal High Court bars VIO from stopping, impounding vehicles, imposing fines

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In a landmark ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja has prohibited the Road Traffic Services, commonly known as the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO), from stopping, impounding, or imposing fines on motorists.

This decision came after a suit was filed by human rights lawyer Abubakar Marshal from Falana and Falana Chambers.

The ruling, delivered by Honourable Justice N.E. Maha in case number FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023, found that the VIO and associated respondents, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, lacked legal authority to carry out such actions.

The court agreed with the plaintiff, stating that no law empowered the respondents to stop or fine motorists.

On October 2, 2024, Justice Maha declared the actions of the VIO as unlawful and oppressive, issuing an order to restrain the agency, its agents, and representatives from continuing to impound vehicles or impose fines on motorists.

Additionally, the court granted a perpetual injunction, protecting Nigerians’ rights to freedom of movement, property ownership, and presumption of innocence without legal justification.

This ruling serves as a significant victory for motorists and upholds the legal rights of citizens against arbitrary actions by traffic authorities.

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