In a renewed effort to promote safer roads and reduce traffic-related accidents across Rivers State, the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), in collaboration with Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) and Road Traffic Officers (RTO), has launched an extensive sensitization campaign to educate motorists on road safety regulations and compliance requirements.
The awareness drive, led by Voke Emore (PCRC) and Engr. Monibo Akobo (Chief VIO/RTO), aims to enlighten road users on the duties of the VIO and RTO, common traffic offences, the importance of Central Motor Registry Information System (CMRIS), and the need for regular vehicle inspections.
Speaking in Port Harcourt, Emore emphasized the pivotal role of PCRC in bridging the gap between the police and the community.
“We are here to sensitize the public on the roles of the VIO and RTO and why they are necessary for ensuring safer roads. The VIO has granted motorists a one-month grace period to update their documents and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy,” he stated.
He noted that during the grace period, VIO personnel would be on the road to educate drivers about necessary vehicle improvements. Emore also called on the state government to support the VIO with better equipment, personnel, and logistics to enhance their operational efficiency.
“The VIO’s role is crucial. In many accident cases, the police depend on the VIO to confirm if the vehicle involved was certified roadworthy. If a vehicle isn’t certified, the driver can be prosecuted,” Emore said.
He further urged commercial drivers to regularize their vehicle papers, revealing that a significant number of them operate without valid documents or driver’s licenses. Emore also clarified that police officers are within their rights to request for driver’s licenses and CMRIS registration during checks.
“The driver’s license is necessary to confirm a person’s fitness to drive and to verify vehicle ownership. While CMRIS registration is not mandatory, it is advisable because it facilitates the recovery of stolen vehicles.”
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The Rivers State PCRC Chairman also encouraged the public to report any misconduct by police officers via the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) through the number: 08161355218.
On his part, Engr. Monibo Akobo explained the specific responsibilities of VIO and RTO officers.
“RTO personnel are those seen on the roads checking for insurance papers and other documents, while VIOs assess the mechanical and roadworthiness status of vehicles when brought to the office,” he said.
Engr. Akobo noted the high rate of non-compliance among commercial drivers, many of whom lack essential vehicle components such as driver’s licenses, headlamps, and horns. He urged motorists to use the grace period to correct these issues.
“Drivers should not see us as threats but as partners in progress. Our office, located at Waterlines Junction (RTC compound), offers free vehicle inspections and affordable processing of vehicle papers.”
He also clarified that VIO and RTO personnel do not operate at night and that tricycles are not exempt from inspections.
Addressing seating arrangements in vehicles, he warned that carrying two passengers in the front seat of a small saloon car constitutes a traffic offence.
“It should be one passenger in front and three at the back,” Akobo advised.
The Chief VIO further revealed plans to introduce dedicated complaint lines to enable the public to report erring officers, affirming that the VIO/RTO remains committed to upholding human rights and ensuring dignity in service delivery.
