Federal High Court in Abuja has put in place a ruling that prohibits the VIO, from stopping vehicles on the road, seizing or taking possession of vehicles, and levying fines on drivers.
Justice Evelyn Maha delivered the ruling in a case concerning the enforcement of fundamental rights, referenced as FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023, which was brought forward by human rights activist and public interest lawyer, Abubakar Marshal.
The order also includes the Director of Road Transport, the Area Commander of Jabi, the Team Leader of Jabi, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, all of whom are identified as respondents.
In her judgement, Ms Maha said VIO officers “are not empowered by any law or statute to stop, impound, confiscate the vehicles of motorists and or impose fine on motorists.”
Subsequently, the judge entered an order of perpetual injunction restraining the VIO and its agents, privies, allies or anybody acting on its behalf from further violating the rights of Nigerians to freedom of movement, presumption of innocence and right to own property without lawful justification.