From Tongnaan Bawa Jos
The Plateau State Government has announced the resumption of field operations by officers of the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) from Monday, November 9, 2026, following a suspension of activities in September over reported cases of harassment and assault involving officers and members of the motoring public.
The Commissioner for Transport, Jatau Davou Gyang announced this during a press briefing, explaining that the suspension, which took effect on September 19, was intended to provide an opportunity for dialogue, stakeholder consultations and the development of measures to improve the conduct of officers and their relationship with motorists.
He said the decision was taken in the interest of public safety, mutual understanding and the need to address concerns surrounding the conduct of both VIO officers and members of the motoring public.
According to him, the ministry embarked on consultations with traditional rulers, the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Public Complaints Commission, Jama’atul Nasril Islam (JNI), Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), organised labour, civil society organisations, transport unions and other relevant stakeholders.
Gyang said the engagements provided an opportunity for constructive discussions and recommendations on improving the operations of the VIO and ensuring that officers discharge their responsibilities professionally.
He stated that the recommendations from the consultations would guide the ministry’s efforts to strengthen public relations, accountability and respect for the rights of road users.
“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,” he announced.
The commissioner assured motorists that the resumption would be guided by renewed commitment to professionalism, discipline, accountability and respect for human dignity.
He emphasised that VIO officers returning to the field were expected to conduct themselves responsibly and in ways that would restore public confidence in the institution.
“Our responsibility is not to intimidate or inconvenience members of the public, but to contribute to safer roads, improved vehicle roadworthiness, and the protection of lives and property,” Jatau said.
He consequently appealed to motorists and other road users to cooperate with duly authorised VIO officers and comply with relevant traffic and vehicle safety regulations.
The commissioner also urged members of the public to report cases of harassment, intimidation, misconduct or unprofessional behaviour through the ministry’s official channels rather than resorting to self-help.
He disclosed that the ministry had established a dedicated rapid-response line, 09133917287, for receiving complaints and addressing concerns involving VIO operations.
Jatau further revealed that two suspects allegedly involved in recent attacks on vehicle inspection officers had been apprehended and were facing prosecution by the Nigerian Police.
He identified the suspects as Kobe and Aweng, warning that the government would no longer tolerate assaults on officers carrying out their lawful duties.
“We have an internal mechanism for dealing with these concerns rather than taking the law into their hands, as we will no longer fold our arms to see anyone assaulting an officer on duty,” he warned.
The commissioner, however, reiterated the ministry’s commitment to maintaining open communication with stakeholders and ensuring that complaints against VIO personnel were treated seriously and addressed through established procedures.
He expressed appreciation to traditional and religious leaders, the NUJ, Public Complaints Commission, organised labour, civil society organisations and transport unions for their contributions towards resolving the issues that led to the suspension.
He said the government remained committed to building a more effective, professional and people-oriented Vehicle Inspection Office that would enjoy the trust and confidence of the motoring public.