In a bid to enhance road safety and improve public trust, the Plateau State Government has held a stakeholders’ engagement meeting to discuss the activities of the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO). The event, organized by the State Ministry of Transport, was aimed at sensitizing the public and gathering feedback on the performance and conduct of VIO officers. Speaking at the forum, the Honorable Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Jatau Davou Gyang, emphasized the need for open dialogue and collaboration to tackle growing concerns.
“Let me start by welcoming all of you to this gathering and with a reminder that we have a mandate to deliver social services to the Plateau people,” Hon. Jatau said in his opening remarks. He stressed that the meeting was not just a formality, but a carefully planned engagement with key stakeholders chosen to speak on issues affecting road users. According to him, the concerns of the people must be heard and addressed through a sincere and interactive session.
The Commissioner acknowledged the importance of VIOs in ensuring that vehicles are roadworthy, documents are up-to-date, and traffic regulations are followed. However, he noted that recent complaints from the public suggest a growing mistrust due to the perceived excesses of some officers. “The issue revolves around the perceived excesses of our vehicle inspection officers and the impact their actions are having on our community,” he said.
Among the major concerns raised by stakeholders was the issue of harassment and intimidation of drivers by VIO personnel. Many road users have alleged that officers often go beyond their mandate, using their position to instill fear or unlawfully demand money. The Commissioner clarified that these are “perceived” issues and the forum was meant to find common ground, not lay blame. “We are here to prove ourselves wrong and right,” he added.
Overzealousness in enforcement was another issue highlighted during the discussion. Participants expressed worry that the VIO might be more focused on collecting fines than ensuring safety. Hon. Jatau responded firmly, stating, “Let it be lucid that we are not so much or directly concerned in generating revenue. Our duty first is ensuring the safety of road users.”
Furthermore, The Commissioner stated that the Ministry of Transport is committed to building stronger understanding between the public and the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO). He emphasized the importance of open dialogue and cooperation.
Anna Godwin Mweltok, head of the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) in Plateau State, spoke with passion and sincerity during the stakeholders’ meeting. She explained that the engagement was necessary because many road users misunderstand the work of VIO officers. “We want people to know us, to know our work and what we are doing on the planet,” she said.
She addressed complaints from the public, especially accusations of harassment. “We are not victimizing them. But we want them to know also that we work well for safety and for progress in Plateau,” she stated. Mweltok said the VIO is committed to correcting wrong impressions.
She appealed to the government for more trained officers and legal backing. According to her, “We need officers that will be trained on that law.” She also thanked the Transport Commissioner for creating a platform for the VIO to share their work and challenges openly.
Markus Yakubu Jatau, Chairman of the Tricycle Union in Plateau State, appreciated the engagement but said more space is needed for deeper conversations. He noted that while today’s session allowed them to air some concerns, many issues still need to be properly addressed in future dialogues.
He emphasized the need for reorientation and proper training of VIO officers, highlighting complaints of poor treatment and delays over minor faults. According to him, respect and effective communication between officers and operators will reduce tension and promote cooperation on the roads.
