The Director of Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) in Ekiti State, Engr. Olawale Ayegbusi has raised alarms over the potential adverse effects on transport safety following a recent high court ruling that restricts VIO officers from impounding vehicles, confiscating, or imposing fines on motorists.
In an interview with newsmen in Ado-Ekiti, Ayegbusi clarified that the ruling specifically applies to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, and does not impact operations in Ekiti State. He emphasized that the issue is residual and pertains only to the FCT, allowing Ekiti to maintain its vehicle inspection and safety laws.
Ayegbusi underscored the crucial role of VIO officers in ensuring vehicles are safe and roadworthy, vital for preventing accidents and protecting lives on the roads. He assured the public that VIO operations in Ekiti would continue uninterrupted, reiterating the agency’s commitment to road safety.
He stated, “We are professionals and trained officers, and we assure the people of Ekiti that we will work tirelessly to minimize road crashes. Removing VIO officers from the roads would negatively affect traffic safety.” He further explained that road traffic law is a state issue under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, granting each state the authority to legislate its traffic laws.
Ayegbusi reaffirmed that the judgment affecting the FCT does not apply to Ekiti. Thus, VIO officers will continue to conduct patrols and enforce traffic regulations. He urged residents to cooperate with officers and adhere to traffic rules to ensure safer roads.
“We urge the public to see the VIO as their friends and feel free to raise any concerns at our office,” he concluded, reinforcing the agency’s dedication to professionalism and road safety in Ekiti State.
