The Plateau State Government has continued its stakeholders’ engagement to regain public trust and reshape public perception of the Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) as part of efforts to prepare the agency for its return to the highways following its suspension by the state government.
Today, the government delegation led by the Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Davou Gyang Jatau, visits His Royal Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba, CON, the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, to seek the support of the traditional institution as the government continues consultations with stakeholders on the VIO crisis.
Hon. Jatau said the Ministry of Transport recognises the traditional institution as a critical partner in maintaining peace and order, stressing that the engagement is aimed at strengthening the relationship between government, the traditional institution and the people.
He said the government is concerned about reported cases of harassment, resistance and non-compliance involving VIO officials, stressing that while enforcement officers must conduct themselves professionally and within the law, officials carrying out legitimate statutory duties should also be accorded respect and protection.
The Commissioner appealed to the traditional council to lend its voice towards the peaceful resolution of disagreements between VIO officials and members of the public, while seeking its support in developing sustainable measures to prevent harassment, confrontation and assault against officials.
He also acknowledged concerns over perceived excesses by some VIO personnel, saying the government is committed to improving communication and public enlightenment so motorists and other road users can better understand the responsibilities of VIO officials, traffic regulations and appropriate channels for addressing grievances.
Jatau maintained that the ministry’s objective is not to create conflict with the motoring public, but to ensure safer roads, responsible driving practices and an orderly transportation system across the state.
Responding, the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, said withdrawing VIO personnel is not the solution as the agency remains critical in ensuring safer highways.
The traditional ruler, however, challenged VIO officials to understand their responsibilities and improve their services to increase the relevance and acceptance of the agency among the people.
He called for a review of the agency’s operations, mandate and purpose, as well as the law establishing it, noting that proper training and capacity building are key to improving its effectiveness and reshaping public perception.
The monarch also raised concerns about road safety and alleged irregularities in vehicle inspection operations, stressing the need to reinforce vehicle roadworthiness checks.
He further emphasised the need to clearly distinguish the roles and functions of VIO from those of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to avoid confusion among motorists.
The royal father pledged the support of the traditional institution in rebuilding public trust in the VIO and reshaping public perception of the agency, while urging officers to improve their operations and services to the people.
