Amanze Chinonye
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has upheld a Federal High Court judgment restraining the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) and Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs) from stopping motorists, impounding vehicles, or imposing fines on road users.
In a unanimous decision delivered on Thursday, a three-member panel dismissed the appeal filed by the DRTS, affirming that there was no legal basis to overturn the earlier judgment issued on October 16, 2024. The appellate court, in a lead judgment delivered by Justice Oyejoju Oyewumi, held that the agency lacked the statutory authority to carry out such enforcement actions on the road.
The dispute traces back to December 2023, when Abuja-based lawyer Abubakar Marshal filed a fundamental rights suit after VIO operatives allegedly stopped and confiscated his vehicle at Jabi. His case challenged what many motorists have long described as arbitrary and oppressive roadside enforcement practices by VIO officers, who routinely stop vehicles and impose fines despite lacking clear statutory powers.
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In the 2024 ruling, Justice Nkeonye Maha held that no existing law empowers VIO officials to stop, seize, confiscate, or impose fines on motorists.
The court declared that such actions amount to unlawful deprivation of property and violate constitutional rights, including freedom of movement and the right to fair hearing. It also issued a perpetual injunction restraining the DRTS from continuing the practice.
By upholding the ruling, the Court of Appeal reinforced the position that only a court of competent jurisdiction can impose penalties for traffic-related offences. It ruled that administrative agencies such as the VIO cannot unilaterally punish motorists without explicit statutory backing. The appellate court also awarded costs against the DRTS in favour of Marshal.
The decision, which builds on growing public scrutiny of VIO operations in Abuja, is expected to reshape how traffic enforcement is carried out in the Federal Capital Territory. Legal experts say it could prompt similar reviews in other states that operate VIO-style systems, especially given longstanding complaints about harassment and arbitrary vehicle seizures.
Although the ruling represents a significant setback for the DRTS, reports suggest the agency may consider approaching the Supreme Court. No official confirmation of a further appeal has been issued.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
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