Cross River Governor Otu Bans Roadside Vehicle Inspections

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State announced a ban on roadside operations conducted by the Vehicle Inspection Office during a meeting with transport stakeholders in Calabar. This decision, communicated through his Chief Press Secretary Linu Obogo, follows protests from commercial transport operators who accused enforcement teams of harassment and imposing excessive penalties.

The new directive mandates that the Vehicle Inspection Office will no longer operate on public roads and will focus on administrative duties within its statutory mandate. Additionally, the governor approved a reduction in daily transport ticket fees for commercial vehicles from ₦850 to ₦500 and a 50% reduction in traffic-related fines.

The new operational guidelines for tricycles include a ban on daily operations after 6 p.m. and exempting commercial bus and tricycle operators from purchasing tickets on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. These reforms are set to take effect on March 9, 2026, aiming to restore order in the transport sector and alleviate financial pressures on operators.