A Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled that the Nigerian Police and FRSC can no longer impose fines on motorists for not having third-party insurance — unless a court orders it.
The judgment, delivered by Justice Hauwa Yilwa, made it clear that only a court of competent jurisdiction has the authority to sanction motorists.
The case was filed by human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju, who challenged the legality of security agencies stopping drivers and issuing fines without due process.
While the court stopped them from issuing fines directly, it also clarified that both the police and FRSC still have the power to enforce compliance — just not punish offenders on the spot.
The ruling has already sparked reactions, especially as motorists had earlier faced fines of up to ₦250,000 during enforcement drives.
The police have, however, indicated plans to appeal the judgment.
This decision is expected to reshape how traffic enforcement is carried out across Nigeria, raising fresh conversations about citizens’ rights and due process.
