The Lagos State Ministry of Transportation has reacted strongly to a viral video circulating online, which shows Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs) being violently assaulted by motorists while carrying out their lawful duties earlier this week.
In the disturbing footage, the motorists are seen attacking the VIO officers, who had reportedly intercepted their vehicle as part of a routine enforcement operation. The video captures scenes of physical assault, including punches thrown at the officials.
Responding to the incident, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, described the attack as “appalling and utterly reprehensible,” stating that it represents not only an assault on the officers involved but also a direct challenge to the authority and dignity of the Lagos State Government.
“Such acts of lawlessness will not go unpunished,” Osiyemi declared.
He emphasized that VIO officials are lawfully empowered agents of the state, tasked with enforcing road safety regulations to protect lives.
“To attack them is to undermine the rule of law, disrupt public order, and desecrate institutions designed to uphold societal safety. The Ministry condemns this disgraceful act in the strongest possible terms. Those responsible will be pursued, apprehended, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” he stated.
According to the Commissioner, the injured officers are currently receiving medical treatment and are responding well. However, he made it clear that this does not lessen the seriousness of the offense or the government’s determination to hold the perpetrators accountable.
“We stand firmly with the assaulted officers and assure all enforcement personnel of our unwavering commitment to their safety and dignity. The Ministry will neither be deterred from its mandate nor allow criminal elements to obstruct the lawful activities of the government,” Osiyemi concluded.
