Court Rules Against Police, FRSC Insurance Fines Authority

On Friday, a Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Hauwa Yilwa, ruled against the Nigeria Police Force and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), stating that these agencies do not have the authority to impose fines on motorists for non-compliance with third-party motor vehicle insurance laws without a valid court order. The judgment followed a suit filed by lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju against the Inspector General of Police and the Attorney General of the Federation.

The court clarified that while the FRSC is tasked with enforcing compliance with insurance laws, the power to impose fines is strictly judicial. Legal practitioner Isiaka Olagunju commended the ruling, emphasizing the need for law enforcement agencies to operate within constitutional limits and not impose penalties without judicial oversight.

The court's decision reinforces the principle that enforcement actions must adhere to due legal processes.