The Digest:
A Federal High Court in Abuja has restrained the Nigeria Police Force and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) from imposing fines on motorists who breach the Third Party Motor Vehicle Insurance Act without a valid court order. Justice Hauwa Joseph Yilwa delivered the judgment in a suit filed by lawyer Deji Adeyanju. The court dismissed a preliminary objection by the police challenging jurisdiction, noting that the police were properly served but refused to respond.
Key Points:
- The police and FRSC lack the power to impose fines without a court order.
- The court noted that the police were served on multiple dates but failed to respond.
- The judge described the police's objection as "an attempt to arrest judgment."
- The ruling clarifies the enforcement limits of the Third Party Motor Insurance Act.
- Motorists can no longer be fined by police or FRSC at roadside checks.
Sources: Daily Post, Daily Trust
