The Lagos State Ministry of Justice don clarify say recent Court of Appeal judgment for Abuja concerning Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) for Federal Capital Territory (FCT) no affect activities of Lagos State Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS).
For statement wey Lawal Pedro (SAN), Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, sign, the state government express concern over wetin dem call wrong interpretation of the appellate court decision.
The Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, earlier uphold Federal High Court judgment wey declare some VIO enforcement actions for FCT unlawful.
The Ministry explain say in 2025, Justice Evelyn Maha of Federal High Court, Abuja, rule say some FCT officials no get statutory power to stop, seize vehicles or fine motorists. Appeal Court later agree with that decision.
But Lagos government stress say the ruling apply only to FCT because the judgment base on absence of legal backing for VIO operations there. According to the statement, the decision no extend go states like Lagos wey get clear laws backing vehicle inspection.
The Ministry point out say under Nigeria federal system, traffic control and vehicle inspection fall under powers of state governments.
Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, especially Section 12(1), give VIS officers power to inspect vehicles, check roadworthiness, issue Road Worthiness Certificates and work with other agencies for traffic enforcement. Section 23(1) also provide how fines fit be paid and how motorists fit challenge penalties in court.
The government insist say VIS operations for Lagos fully comply with state law and no be illegal or unconstitutional.
Motorists were advised to cooperate with VIS officers during routine checks and warned say anybody wey assault or obstruct officers during official duty go face arrest and prosecution.
Lagos State Government reaffirm say e remain committed to professional and respectful traffic enforcement across the state.
