The Plateau State Government has set up an independent committee to investigate widespread allegations of misconduct, harassment, and overzealous enforcement by officials of the Vehicle Inspection Office.
In the face of mounting public disapproval of the agency’s practices, Transport Commissioner Davou Jatau conducted the inauguration on Friday in Jos.
The Vehicle Inspection Office must enforce vehicle safety standards, traffic rules, and roadworthiness requirements within stringent legal and ethical bounds, Jatau emphasized, acknowledging the vital role that the transportation industry plays in promoting the state’s economic growth and social harmony.
“The transport sector remains a pillar of our economy, and the Vehicle Inspection Office plays a key role in ensuring road safety.
“However, recent complaints have highlighted issues of misconduct, harassment, and excessive enforcement by some officials. It is our duty to investigate these allegations thoroughly, fairly, and transparently,” the commissioner said.
The seven-member committee, drawn from government, civil society, and the media, is tasked with reviewing petitions, probing specific incidents, identifying systemic problems, and proposing reforms.
Speaking to VIO officers and leadership, Jatau explained that the investigation’s goals were to improve professionalism, fortify operational guidelines, and restore public confidence rather than to criticize the organization.
“This is an opportunity to improve institutional credibility, promote discipline, enhance training, and ensure traffic enforcement is firm yet compassionate,” he added.
The commissioner described such involvement as crucial for long-lasting improvements and urged the public to assist by responsibly supplying the committee with reliable information.
In order to guarantee efficient and legal service delivery to citizens, he reiterated the administration’s dedication to good governance, transparency, and the prompt execution of the panel’s recommendations.
