The Digest:
The Court of Appeal in Owerri has ruled that the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) lacks the authority to seize vehicles, driver’s licenses, or related documents without a valid court order. The ruling came after an appeal by the FRSC against a judgment that declared such actions unlawful.
Key Points:
- The appellate court affirmed the Abia State High Court's decision that the FRSC unlawfully seized a citizen’s vehicle and driver’s license.
- The case stemmed from an incident in 2020, when a doctor, Emmanuel Ugochukwu, was accosted by FRSC officers during the COVID-19 lockdown, despite his documents being in order.
- Ugochukwu claimed that after declining to bribe the officers, they fabricated charges and seized his driver’s license.
- The Abia State High Court awarded Ugochukwu ₦30 million, but the Court of Appeal reduced the amount to ₦10 million.
- A federal high court in January had also restrained the FRSC from impounding vehicles with faded number plates.
The ruling marks a significant step in limiting the powers of the FRSC, ensuring that drivers’ rights are protected and that any such actions require a court order.
Rooted in Justice.
Sources: TheCable, Premium Times, Channels TV
