By John Umeh
The Lagos State Ministry of Transportation has issued a strong statement following the circulation of a viral video showing Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs) being violently attacked by some motorists earlier this week.
In the footage, the motorists were seen engaging in a physical confrontation with the officers after their vehicle was stopped for inspection. The situation escalated, with punches thrown at the uniformed officials who had reportedly attempted to apprehend the driver and impound the car.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, described the assault as “unacceptable, disgraceful, and a direct challenge to the authority of the state.” He stressed that the government would not allow such acts of lawlessness to go unpunished.
“VIO officers are not thugs; they are duly empowered by law to enforce traffic regulations and protect lives on our roads,” Osiyemi said. “To attack them is to challenge the rule of law and undermine the structures put in place for public safety. This government will pursue the perpetrators and ensure they face the full weight of justice.”
The commissioner further disclosed that the injured officers are currently receiving medical care, assuring that the Ministry remains fully committed to safeguarding its personnel from such attacks in the line of duty.
He also reaffirmed the government’s zero tolerance for violence against state officials, warning that anyone who attempts to obstruct or intimidate enforcement agents would be dealt with decisively.
“We stand firmly with our officers and will not allow miscreants to erode the dignity of the state or compromise safety on our roads,” Osiyemi stated.
The Lagos State Government has called on residents to respect traffic laws and cooperate with authorized enforcement officers to avoid similar confrontations in the future.
