The Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) in Plateau State has resumed field operations following 52 days of suspension over reported attacks and harassment of its officers by members of the public.
The comeback was announced by the Commissioner of Transportation, Davour Jatau, who held that the resumption was held to create room for dialogue and find lasting solutions to the disagreements between VIO officers and members of the public.
Jatau, in Jos on Monday, explained that the suspension was mutually agreed after the government held consultations with the Traditional Council, Nigerian Union of Journalists, Public Complaints Commission, Christian Association of Nigeria, civil society organisations, Nigerian Labour Congress and Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers, aimed at improving the conduct of officers, strengthening public relations and ensuring that motorists’ rights are respected.
According to the commissioner, the suspension, took effect on September 19, and added that the resumption would not be business as usual, warning that officers must demonstrate professionalism, accountability and courtesy while carrying out their duties.
He also revealed that two suspects, identified as Kobe and Aweng, had been arrested over the last two reported attacks on VIO officers and were facing prosecution by the police.
He urged residents to report any cases of misconduct, intimidation or harassment involving VIO personnel through the Ministry of Transport’s official channels.
The commissioner further appealed to motorists to cooperate with authorised officers and comply with traffic regulations and vehicle safety requirements.
He maintained that the primary responsibility of the VIO was to ensure vehicles were roadworthy and to protect lives and property, rather than subject motorists to intimidation or unnecessary inconvenience.