The Plateau State Government has set up an independent committee to probe allegations of misconduct, harassment, and excessive enforcement involving officials of the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO).
The Commissioner for Transport, Davou Jatau, inaugurated the panel on Friday, February 20, in Jos, following mounting public complaints about the agency’s operations.
Jatau подчеркed the critical role of the transport sector in driving economic growth and maintaining social stability in the state. He noted that while the VIO is essential in enforcing vehicle safety standards and traffic laws, its activities must strictly adhere to legal and ethical standards.
“The transport sector is a cornerstone of our economy, and the Vehicle Inspection Office plays an important role in promoting road safety,” he said. “However, recent complaints point to misconduct, harassment, and excessive enforcement by some officials. We have a responsibility to investigate these claims thoroughly, fairly, and transparently.”
The seven-member committee, comprising representatives from government, civil society, and the media, has been tasked with reviewing petitions, probing specific cases, identifying systemic challenges, and proposing necessary reforms.
Addressing VIO personnel and management, the commissioner clarified that the initiative is not intended to vilify the agency but to enhance professionalism and rebuild public trust.
“This process presents an opportunity to strengthen institutional integrity, reinforce discipline, improve training, and ensure that traffic enforcement is both firm and humane,” he added.
Jatau also called on residents to support the committee by submitting credible information responsibly, stressing that active civic participation is vital to achieving meaningful reforms.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the prompt implementation of the panel’s recommendations to guarantee efficient and lawful service delivery across the state.
