The Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, has announced a ban on roadside operations by Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) as part of new reforms aimed at improving the state’s transport system.
The directive was announced in Calabar after the governor met with transport stakeholders following complaints from commercial drivers about harassment and excessive penalties.
According to a statement from the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Linus Obogo, the government has ordered that VIO officers will no longer carry out roadside enforcement activities. Instead, their duties will now be limited to office-based administrative functions.
Government Responds to Transport Operators’ Complaints
The decision came after several commercial bus and tricycle operators accused enforcement teams of imposing high fines and harassing motorists during roadside inspections.
Governor Otu said the new policy is intended to restore order in the transport sector and protect drivers from unfair practices.
Reduction in Transport Fees and FinesAs part of the reforms, the Cross River State Government announced several changes to reduce financial pressure on drivers.
Key measures include:
- Daily transport ticket fee reduced from ₦850 to ₦500
- Penalty for failing to purchase tickets reduced to ₦10,000
- Traffic-related fines reduced by 50 percent
- Tricycle daily ticket fee reduced from ₦1,200 to ₦500
The government also directed that all fines must be paid only into official government accounts to prevent illegal collections.
New Rules for Tricycle Operations
The reforms also introduce new regulations for tricycle operators in the state.
Under the new rule:
- Tricycle operations must end by 6:00 PM daily
- Operators are exempt from ticket payments on weekends and public holidays
The government said the measure is designed to give transport workers financial relief.
Roles of Transport Agencies Clarified
Governor Otu further clarified the responsibilities of transport agencies in the state.
The Commercial Transport Regulatory Agency (CTRA) will focus on vehicle registration and approved ticket sales, while the Traffic Management and Regulatory Agency (TRAMRA) will concentrate on traffic control duties.
All enforcement officers must now wear proper uniforms and verified identification while performing their duties.
Transport Union Reacts
The new directive will take effect on March 9, 2026.However, some transport operators believe more clarity is needed regarding traffic offences and fines.
Mr. Johnson Ade, a commercial driver, suggested that the government should publish a clear list of offences and penalties.
Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Chairman of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Mr. Sunday Dennis, said the union will hold an emergency meeting to review the new directives.
