Plateau VIO To Resume Operations After 2-Months Suspension

The Plateau State government has announced that the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) would resume field operations on Monday following the suspension of its activities in September over allegations of harassment, misconduct and violent confrontations involving its officers and motorists.

The commissioner for transport, Hon. Davou Jatau Gyang, disclosed this while addressing journalists in Jos on Friday , explaining that the decision followed extensive consultations with traditional rulers, journalists, civil society organisations, labour unions, transport unions and other stakeholders.

The government had earlier suspended VIO field operations following recurring confrontations between its personnel and motorists, particularly over allegations of harassment and assault.

Jatau said the consultations were aimed at addressing concerns surrounding the conduct of VIO personnel, improving relations between officers and members of the public and finding lasting solutions to the disagreements.

He said, “Following the announcement of the suspension, we embarked on a series of engagements with diversified stakeholders and opinion leaders across the state.

“This included the Traditional Council, the Coalition of Journalists, civil society organisations, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and other relevant institutions.

“These engagements provided an opportunity for frank discussions, constructive feedback and valuable recommendations on how to improve our operations.”

The commissioner appreciated the stakeholders who participated in the engagements, adding that their concerns and recommendations would guide the ministry’s approach to the resumption of operations.

He said, “Having considered the outcome of these engagements and the need to restore our statutory services, we wish to formally inform the general public that the Vehicle Inspection Office will resume field operations with effect from Monday, November 9, 2026.

“This resumption will be guided by a renewed commitment to professionalism, discipline, accountability and respect for the rights and dignity of all Nigerians.”

Jatau stressed that the resumption was not a return to business as usual but an opportunity to renew the agency’s commitment to improved service delivery and responsible public service.

He said officers returning to the field had been expected to conduct themselves in ways that would promote public confidence, courtesy and respect for road users.

The commissioner appealed to motorists and other road users to ensure that their vehicles were duly authorised and comply with relevant traffic and road safety regulations.

He also encouraged members of the public to report cases of misconduct, harassment, intimidation or unprofessional behaviour through the appropriate official channels.

“All complaints will be treated seriously and addressed in accordance with established procedures. We have a dedicated rapid-response line, for members of the public to report such incidents,” he said.

He maintained that the responsibility of VIO personnel was not to intimidate or inconvenience motorists but to contribute to safer roads, improve vehicle roadworthiness and protect lives and property.

The commissioner further disclosed that two suspects  had been apprehended in connection with the last two reported incidents involving assaults on VIO personnel and were currently being prosecuted by the police.

He said the state government would not tolerate attacks, harassment or intimidation of VIO personnel carrying out their lawful responsibilities, warning that anyone found responsible would face the full wrath of the law.

Jatau however, urged VIO officers to reciprocate the government’s intervention by maintaining professionalism and avoiding actions capable of provoking unnecessary confrontations with motorists.

“We appeal to members of the public to channel whatever concerns or complaints they have to the ministry. We have internal mechanisms for addressing such issues and ensuring that appropriate action is taken,” he said.

Jatau assured residents that the ministry would maintain open communication with stakeholders and the general public as part of efforts to build an institution that enjoys public trust and confidence.