The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a ruling preventing the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (VIO) from stopping vehicles, confiscating them, or fining motorists.
Justice Evelyn Maha delivered the judgment on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, in response to a fundamental rights enforcement suit (FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023) brought by human rights lawyer Abubakar Marshal.
The ruling also impacts the Director of Road Transport, Area Commander Jabi, the Team Leader Jabi, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), who were named as respondents.
Justice Maha upheld the argument that no law authorizes these officials to stop, confiscate, or fine motorists. The court further issued an injunction barring them from engaging in these activities, deeming such actions unlawful and oppressive.
Additionally, the court granted a perpetual injunction preventing any future violation of Nigerians’ rights to freedom of movement, presumption of innocence, and property ownership without legal grounds.
