Nigerian citizens, in a call to action, have expressed dismay following the revelation of an alleged Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) exploitation, and have called for government intervention as they demand accountability.
This call was made on Wednesday through the social media platform after the Chairman of the Commercial Drivers Welfare Association in Rivers State, Mr. Christopher Ezeali, disclosed that commercial drivers may embark on a protest if nothing is done concerning the alleged illegal operations of the officials.
In an interview with Nigeria Info, Ezeali revealed that the VIO demands sixty thousand naira or more from motorists, and the points at which they operate across the capital city are becoming alarming. Hence, the government should call them to order.
During the interview, he stressed that their services should be restricted to checkpoints located at state boundaries rather than within the state.
Meanwhile, reports noted that the Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee in Rivers State, Mr. Voke Emore, accused supposed VIOs of extorting drivers by demanding documents meant for the police and FRSC.
However, Chief VIO Monibo Akobo clarified that those on the roads are impostors, not authorized VIO personnel.
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Nigerians’ Reactions to This Claim
Regarding the revelation, most Nigerians took to Facebook requesting that the government address the claim. While the majority are calling for restrictions, others are asking for clarification of the VIO’s duties.
Sonny Ezekwere wrote, “So who are they if they are not VIO officials? And how come they operate freely with VIO uniform?”
Isaac Odinakachukwu explained as he wrote, “It’s simple, VIO are still banned from operating on the road. If you choose to stop for them, that’s your sole choice. Even the police under flyovers are in a very wrong position to stop vehicles for whatever reasons; it poses danger and causes road blockage. As for VIO, we have no business with you on the roads, pending the determination of the suit against your activities on the road.”
Another user, Eze Gozie, narrated his ordeal and expressed his interest in participating in the protest: “These guys tried stopping me at Rukpokwu new road junction by Market Square, but I didn’t.”
Simon Etim added while alleging police involvement, “They are in every area. They even join with police. Please, government should do something, please.”
