Plateau government sets up panel to probe VIO misconduct

The Plateau State Government has inaugurated an independent committee to investigate allegations of misconduct, harassment and excessive enforcement by officials of the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO).

The Commissioner for Transport, Davou Jatau, performed the inauguration on Friday, February 20, in Jos following growing public complaints about the agency’s activities.

Jatau acknowledged the importance of the transport sector to the state’s economic growth and social stability, noting that while the VIO plays a vital role in enforcing vehicle safety standards and traffic regulations, its operations must remain within legal and ethical boundaries.

“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,” he said.

The seven-member committee, drawn from government, civil society and the media, has been mandated to review petitions, investigate specific incidents, identify systemic issues and recommend reforms.

Addressing VIO officers and management, the commissioner said the investigation was not aimed at condemning the agency but at strengthening professionalism and restoring public confidence.

“This is an opportunity to improve institutional credibility, promote discipline, enhance training and ensure traffic enforcement is firm yet compassionate,” he added. Jatau urged members of the public to cooperate with the committee by providing credible information in a responsible manner, describing civic engagement as essential to meaningful reform.

He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability and the swift implementation of the panel’s recommendations to ensure effective and lawful service delivery across the state.