Restrictions on Articulated Vehicles in FCT Remain Unenforced, Accidents Continue
Background
In 2010, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration introduced restrictions on the movement of articulated vehicles, including trailers, tankers, and tippers, on major arterial roads, including Gwagwalada, Suleja, and Nyanya, to reduce accidents and improve traffic flow.
Court Judgement
However, a Federal High Court in Abuja ruled in October 2024 that the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), also known as the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO), lacks the legal authority to stop and impound offending vehicles or impose fines on motorists. The ruling has affected the enforcement of the restriction on movement of articulated vehicles.
Current Situation
The Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, said that the FCT Administration has appealed the judgement, but until the appeal is heard, DRTS officials cannot impound vehicles of offenders. The spokesperson for the DRTS, Kalu Emetu, confirmed that the organization is following the court’s directive and has withdrawn its officials from the roads.
Consequences of Non-Enforcement
The non-enforcement of the restriction has led to a surge in accidents involving heavy duty vehicles. Just last Wednesday, a CNG-powered trailer lost control and ran into several vehicles, resulting in the loss of 10 lives and injuries to 30 people. The next day, another trailer overturned and blocked the highway, causing a second accident that claimed two lives.
Warning from DRTS
Emetu warned that the absence of VIO officers on the roads could be fatal, and that the DRTS is doing its best to keep away from the roads as directed by the court. He expressed concern that the continued absence of VIO officers from the roads may lead to more accidents and losses.
Conclusion
The restriction on articulated vehicles in the FCT remains unenforced, and the consequences are severe. The FCT Administration is appealing the court judgement, but until then, DRTS officials are unable to enforce the restriction. The situation is a concern, and the FCT Administration must find a solution to ensure the safety of road users.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What was the purpose of the restriction on articulated vehicles in the FCT?
The restriction was introduced to reduce accidents and improve traffic flow on major arterial roads. -
What was the court’s judgement on the matter?
The court ruled that the DRTS lacks the legal authority to stop and impound offending vehicles or impose fines on motorists. -
What is the current situation with regards to the enforcement of the restriction?
The DRTS is unable to enforce the restriction until the appeal is heard, and the FCT Administration has appealed the judgement. - What are the consequences of the non-enforcement of the restriction?
The non-enforcement has led to a surge in accidents involving heavy duty vehicles, resulting in loss of lives and injuries.
