The Akwa Ibom State Government has withdrawn Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) operatives from roads following the Nigerian Bar Association’s intervention.
A court had previously prohibited VIO operatives from stopping vehicles, impounding them, or imposing fines on motorists statewide.
Initially, the agency complied with the ruling and left the roads, but operatives resumed operations in February without authorization.
Their activities, particularly along Ikot Ekpene Road in Uyo, directly violated the existing court order prohibiting such enforcement measures.
In response, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Uyo Branch, formally engaged the state’s Commissioner for Transport regarding enforcement.
A statement issued by the NBA’s Secretary, Utomobong Inyang, confirmed their meeting and the government’s subsequent decision.
“We are pleased the commissioner has immediately ordered VIO operatives to vacate roads in compliance with the court’s judgment.”
This decision reinforces judicial authority, ensuring road enforcement in Akwa Ibom aligns with established legal procedures and regulatory frameworks.
