Court Limits Police and FRSC on Insurance Fines

On Friday, a Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Hauwa Yilwa, issued a ruling that restrains the Nigeria Police Force and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) from imposing fines on motorists for third-party vehicle insurance without a court order. The case was initiated by activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju against the Inspector General of Police and the Attorney General of the Federation.

The court determined that the police and FRSC lack the legal authority to impose such fines, which was deemed a violation of the Motor Vehicle (Third Party Insurance) Act of 1950 and subsequent amendments. Although the court did not grant all the reliefs sought by Adeyanju, it made significant pronouncements regarding the limits of enforcement powers.

Counsel Marvin Omorogb noted that the judgment affirms the need for legal remedies for motorists. Meanwhile, Victor Okoy, representing the police, indicated plans to appeal the ruling, questioning the court's jurisdiction and the naming of the Inspector General as a party in the suit.