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By: Mandy Tina
A group, Relief International Africa, has issued a strong condemnation of what it describes as the increasing and unlawful harassment of motorists in Port Harcourt and its environs by operatives of the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), popularly known as Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO).
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Amb. Green Isaac, the organization expressed deep concern over the VIO’s alleged overreach, noting that the officers have moved beyond routine vehicle inspections to demanding driver’s licenses and insurance papers from motorists — actions that fall outside their legal mandate.
Relief International Africa referenced a valid and subsisting perpetual injunction issued by Justice Evelyn Maha of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on October 2, 2024 (Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023), which clearly restrains the DRTS from stopping, harassing, impounding, or confiscating vehicles across Nigerian roads.
“The continued disregard of this court judgment is a blatant contempt of court and a direct threat to the rule of law and public order,” the statement read. “This lawlessness sets a dangerous precedent, undermines public trust in government institutions, and could provoke civil unrest.”
The organization called on the Rivers State Government, the Ministry of Transportation, and the Nigeria Police Force to urgently investigate and curb the excesses of VIO operatives. It also urged the Attorney General of the Federation to enforce the court’s ruling and prosecute violators in order to restore confidence in the judiciary and democratic governance.
“VIO officials must be reminded that they are not above the law and must operate strictly within the confines of their statutory duties,” Isaac emphasized.
Relief International Africa reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rights of citizens while advocating for transparency, justice, and adherence to the rule of law in Nigeria.
