Lagos State Clarifies VIO Court Order Does Not Apply

The Lagos State Government issued a statement clarifying that a recent restraining order from an Abuja court regarding the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) does not apply within Lagos State. This clarification, made by Mr.

Lawal Pedro San, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State, followed public confusion over reports suggesting that the Abuja ruling could affect operations in Lagos. The statement emphasized that the VIO's authority is limited to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and that Lagos State has the legislative power to manage vehicle inspections and traffic enforcement.

The Lagos State Ministry of Justice noted that the Abuja court's ruling was based on the absence of statutory authority for the VIO to impound vehicles or impose fines. The Lagos State Government plans to continue enforcing traffic regulations and has been expanding its vehicle inspection services, utilizing technology to improve compliance and road safety.

The government warned that motorists who disobey VIO officers will face arrest and prosecution.