By Our Correspondent
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has upheld a Federal High Court judgment that restricts Vehicle Inspection Office officers from stopping vehicles, impounding them, or imposing fines on motorists. The appellate court delivered its decision on Thursday, dismissing the VIO’s appeal and confirming that the agency does not have the legal authority to carry out such enforcement actions.
A three member panel of the Court of Appeal ruled that the appeal lacked merit and affirmed the original judgment delivered on October 16, 2024, by Justice Nkeonye Maha of the Federal High Court. The lower court had ruled that there is no statutory basis that empowers the VIO to seize vehicles, detain them, or penalize motorists through fines.
The case originated from a fundamental rights suit filed by a lawyer who complained that VIO officials unlawfully confiscated his vehicle at a checkpoint in Abuja on December 12, 2023. He argued that the action violated his constitutional rights, including freedom of movement and the right to own property.
In its judgment, the Federal High Court issued a perpetual injunction restraining the VIO and its officers from continuing these actions. The court described their conduct as unlawful and oppressive, noting that such acts infringed on the constitutional rights of motorists.
With the Appeal Court now affirming that decision, the ruling stands as a clear directive that VIO officers cannot legally stop vehicles, impound them, or issue fines unless supported by specific legislation. The decision has been welcomed by civil rights advocates who say it reinforces the protection of motorists and ensures due process in enforcement activities.
