Issued by the Executives of the National Conference of Directors and Chief Road Traffic Officers of the Federation (CDCROF) AKA Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs)
The National Executive Council of the Conference of Directors and Chief Road Traffic Officers of the Federation (CDCROF), also known as Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs), has observed with concern the growing public misconception surrounding the recent judgement of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which was recently upheld by the Court of Appeal, restraining the FCT Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) and its personnel from impounding vehicles or imposing fines for violations of the FCT Transport Regulations.
We wish to categorically clarify that the said judgement applies strictly and exclusively to the operations of the FCT DRTS within the Federal Capital Territory. The ruling does not in any way affect the operations, powers, or mandates of Vehicle Inspection Officers and Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) authorities in any other State of the Federation.
For the avoidance of doubt, Motor Vehicle Administration including vehicle registration and licensing, vehicle inspection and certification, driver training, testing and licensing, traffic monitoring and control, enforcement of traffic laws and regulations, road transport control, as well as regulation of motor vehicle–related trades and collection of associated fees is a residual matter under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
This means that State Governments retain the constitutional authority to enact and enforce laws guiding these activities within their jurisdictions.
The misconception being propagated in some public circles, suggesting that the judgement has nationwide implications, is therefore incorrect, misleading, and legally unfounded.
While the FCT Administration is reviewing the judgement for further actions, it must be emphasized that the ruling affects only DRTS activities in the FCT and should not be interpreted as binding on other States or their respective traffic and vehicle inspection agencies.
CDCROF calls on the media, stakeholders, and the general public to exercise caution in reportage and commentary on this matter to avoid unnecessary confusion, policy misinterpretation, or disruption of legitimate traffic enforcement activities across States.
We remain committed to promoting safe, orderly, and secure road transport administration across Nigeria and continue to support all State Vehicle Inspection Services in the lawful discharge of their mandates.
Durojaye Babawale Olalekan
National Chairman
For: Executive Committee
National Conference of Directors and Chief Road Traffic Officers of the Federation (CDCROF)
(Vehicle Inspection Officers – VIOs)
