Lagos VIO Continues to Arrest Impound Vehicles Despite Court Order

The Lagos State Government has made it clear that a recent Federal High Court ruling from Abuja, which prohibits the Directorate of Vehicle Inspection Services (VIO) from arresting motorists and impounding vehicles, does not apply within its jurisdiction.

This clarification comes amidst concerns following Justice Evelyn Maha's decision on October 2, which stated that there is "no legal basis for the agency to impound, confiscate, or impose fines on vehicles" in Abuja.

The court ruling was initiated by a suit filed by human rights activist Abubakar Marshal against several officials, including the Director of Road Transport and the Minister of the FCT. The judgment highlighted that the actions of these officials were not supported by any law or statute in Abuja, thus barring them from continuing such practices.

Despite this federal ruling, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, emphasized that the judgment is geographically limited. He stated, "It is important to note and be informed that, in law, a court has limits to its territorial jurisdiction, and in this case, the judgment is restricted to Abuja."

This indicates a significant legal distinction between the jurisdictions of Abuja and Lagos.

In Lagos, the Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018 provides the legal framework under which VIO operates, allowing them to continue their activities of vehicle inspection, impoundment, and imposing fines. Osiyemi reassured residents and vehicle operators that these local laws support the VIO's enforcement actions, ensuring continued regulation and compliance within the state.