By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has announced plans to commence the enforcement of third-party insurance for all vehicle owners starting next month.
As part of the preparation for a smooth rollout, the State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Baba Azare, held a strategic meeting with key stakeholders. The meeting aimed to foster collaboration and address concerns regarding the enforcement exercise.
Stakeholders Collaborate on Implementation
The session brought together representatives of critical organizations, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (IRS), among others.
In his address, Mr. Azare emphasized the directive issued by the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun. The directive mandates that all vehicle owners must possess valid third-party insurance as required by Section 68 of the Insurance Act and Section 312 of the 1945 Motor Vehicle (Third Party Insurance) Act.
Strict Measures to Curb Violations
The police commissioner warned that vehicles without valid insurance would be impounded. Owners will need to present genuine documents before their vehicles are released. He also cautioned against the use of fake insurance certificates, adding that violators would be required to disclose the source of such documents.
Azare encouraged vehicle owners to patronize authorized insurance providers to avoid inconvenience and contribute to road safety.
Stakeholder Contributions
In separate remarks:
- FRSC urged road users to update their insurance and other vehicle particulars to avoid embarrassment during enforcement.
- Akwa Ibom State IRS reiterated that third-party insurance is a mandatory requirement for all vehicles.
- RTEAN pledged its support, acknowledging that the initiative could bring order to the state’s transport system.
- NUJ assured journalists’ collaboration in creating public awareness for the success of the exercise.
- NLC Chairman, Comrade Sunny James, called for a humane approach by security agencies during enforcement.
The enforcement exercise aims to promote compliance, enhance road safety, and ensure orderliness in the state’s transportation system.
