Cross River Bans VIO Operations, Reduces Transport Fines

The Cross River government, under the leadership of Governor Bassey Otu, has announced a ban on the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) from conducting road operations across the state. This decision was made public in Calabar on a Saturday, as reported by Chief Press Secretary Linu Obogo.

The ban follows protests from commercial tricycle operators who complained about excessive ticket fees and alleged harassment by enforcement teams. Governor Otu's directive includes a significant review of transport fees and penalties in the state, signaling a notable policy shift in regulating commercial transport operations.

The new rules include a reduction of ticket fees from N850 to N500, with penalties for failing to purchase tickets lowered to N10,000. Additionally, night operations for tricycles have been prohibited.

The governor emphasized the role of the transport agency in ensuring compliance while minimizing harassment. This policy change is set to take effect on March 9, 2026, and reflects a broader trend to limit VIO powers in certain jurisdictions in Nigeria.