The Lagos State Government has issued a statement regarding the recent Federal High Court judgment in Abuja, which barred the Directorate of Vehicle Inspection Services (VIO) from stopping vehicles, impounding or confiscating them, and imposing fines on motorists. According to the statement, this judgment only applies to Abuja and does not affect the VIO in Lagos State ¹[2).
The government explained that the court’s territorial jurisdiction is limited, and the judgment is specific to Abuja. Additionally, the rationale behind the judgment was that there is no law empowering the VIO in Abuja to perform these functions. In contrast, Lagos State has the Transport Sector Reform Law (TSRL-2018), which clearly outlines the establishment, duties, and powers of the VIO, including penalties for traffic violations.
The Federal High Court’s judgment only applies to Abuja.
The TSRL-2018 empowers the VIO in Lagos State to perform its duties.
The judgment does not affect the VIO in Lagos State.
Motorists in Lagos State are advised to continue following the law, upholding the TSRL, and respecting the VIO. The government reassures that the VIO in Lagos State will continue to perform its duties as outlined in the TSRL-2018.
