Lagos VIS:Why Abuja’s Court Ruling Doesn’t Stop Vehicle Inspections in Lagos

​The Lagos State Ministry of Justice has cleared the air regarding the recent Court of Appeal judgment in Abuja, which restricted the powers of the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) in the Federal Capital Territory. Following viral reports suggesting that VIO operations are now “illegal” nationwide, the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), has issued a firm clarification: The Abuja ruling does not apply to Lagos State.

​The Abuja Context vs. The Lagos Reality

​The confusion stems from a 2025 judgment by Justice Evelyn Maha of the Federal High Court, recently affirmed by the Court of Appeal. The court ruled that the FCT VIO lacked the statutory power to stop, impound vehicles, or impose fines because no specific law granted them those powers in the FCT.

​However, the Lagos State Government emphasizes that Nigeria’s federal system allows states to legislate on “Residual” matters, which includes traffic management and vehicle inspection.

​The Legal Backbone of Lagos VIS

​Unlike the FCT, Lagos State has a robust legal framework. Under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) is legally mandated to:

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• ​Inspect and regulate the roadworthiness of all motor vehicles.
• ​Conduct pre-registration inspections.
• ​Issue Road Worthiness Certificates (RWC).
• ​Enforce traffic rules in collaboration with other agencies.

​Fines and Due Process

​Addressing concerns over “illegal fines,” the Attorney-General noted that Section 23(1) of the Lagos State law explicitly authorizes the issuance of fine tickets. Motorists have 48 hours to pay, or they can contest the ticket in a Magistrate or Mobile Court.

​”The process in Lagos is conducted within the ambit of the law,” Pedro stated. He warned that any motorist who assaults or obstructs a VIS officer based on a misunderstanding of the Abuja ruling will face arrest and prosecution.

​The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to civility and decorum on the roads but urged the public to remain law-abiding to avoid unnecessary sanctions.