A Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled that the Nigeria Police Force and the Federal Road Safety Corps cannot impose fines on motorists for third-party motor insurance without a court order. The judgment was delivered on Friday by Justice Hauwa Yilwa in a suit filed by lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju.
The court held that while both agencies have the authority to check compliance with insurance laws, they do not have the power to penalise offenders without recourse to the courts. The ruling also restrains the police and the FRSC from imposing fines on vehicle owners.
Adeyanju had asked the court to determine the legality of enforcement and sanctioning powers under relevant laws, including the Motor Vehicles Third Party Insurance Act and the FRSC Establishment Act. His counsel, Marvin Omorogbe, said the decision clarifies that enforcement does not extend to punishment.
Also Read: 19 People Die In Kogi Auto Crash Fire, Says FRSC
Counsel to the defendants, Victor Okoye, described the judgment as partly favourable and indicated plans to appeal, arguing that the suit was improperly filed and that the court lacked jurisdiction.
Leave feedback about this
You must be logged in to post a comment.