By Ifeoluwa Odunayo
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has appealed a court ruling that limits the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO), from impounding vehicles for traffic violations.
FCTA introduced the electronic ticketing and central booking system to enforce traffic laws in Abuja without physical vehicle stops, a move that follows an October 3, 2024, Federal High Court ruling that barred the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) from impounding vehicles, stopping motorists, or imposing fines.
Director of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), Dr. Abdullateef Bello, announced this on Monday during the launch of an e-ticketing system to enforce traffic regulations in Abuja.
He emphasized that while the court ruling restricts physical enforcement, the agency has adopted legally backed technology to monitor and penalize offenders.
The new system will capture violations electronically, reducing direct confrontations between officers and motorists.
Bello warned that offenders who fail to settle their fines within seven days will face vehicle impoundment. Additionally, outstanding fines will be deducted during license renewal.
“The DRTS will no longer randomly stop vehicles. Instead, technology will identify offenders, ensuring a more efficient and transparent process,” he stated.
With staff training completed and necessary logistics in place, the FCTA has officially commenced electronic enforcement of traffic laws across the capital.
