In response to the recent Federal High Court judgment in Abuja, which prohibits the Directorate of Vehicle Inspection Services (commonly known as VIO) from stopping vehicles, impounding or confiscating them, and imposing fines on motorists, there has been concern over whether this decision extends to Lagos State or other states.
- It is crucial to understand that, legally, courts have territorial jurisdiction. In this case, the ruling applies solely to Abuja and does not affect operations outside of that jurisdiction.
- The judgment by Hon. Justice Evelyn Maha in the fundamental rights enforcement suit (FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023) was based on the absence of any law empowering the VIO in Abuja to carry out those actions. In contrast, Lagos State operates under the Transport Sector Reform Law of Lagos State (TSRL-2018). This law, specifically Part II, Sections 11-22, establishes the VIO’s authority in Lagos, detailing its duties and the penalties it can impose for traffic violations as outlined in the law’s schedule (violations 1-52).
- Consequently, the Federal High Court’s decision in Abuja does not apply to Lagos State.
Motorists in Lagos are therefore encouraged to remain law-abiding, adhere to the TSRL, and cooperate with the VIO.
