Mandatory Third-Party Insurance Enforcement Begins
The police forces in Lagos, Akwa Ibom, and Edo states have initiated a strict enforcement campaign for mandatory third-party motor vehicle insurance starting February 1, 2025, following directives from the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.
Subheadline: Lagos Leads with Clear Warnings
Lagos State Police spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, emphasized that all vehicle owners must have at least valid third-party insurance. He warned that failure to comply would lead to enforcement actions like fines, penalties, or both, aiming to safeguard road users and ensure legal compliance.
Professionalism in Enforcement
Lagos State Police Commissioner Olanrewaju Ishola instructed officers to maintain professionalism and courtesy during this enforcement drive. He stressed that any form of incivility would not be tolerated.
Akwa Ibom’s Compliance Monitoring
In Akwa Ibom, CP Baba Azare personally led teams to check compliance in Uyo and Ikot Ekpene, reinforcing that third-party insurance is legally mandatory for all vehicles. He noted a high compliance rate so far but warned that vehicles without insurance would be impounded and their owners prosecuted if non-compliance persists.
Edo State Joins the Initiative
Similarly, in Edo State, Police Public Relations Officer Moses Yamu conveyed a message from CP Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, urging immediate action to secure third-party insurance to avoid legal repercussions.
Legal Backing and Penalties
This enforcement is based on Section 68 of the Insurance Act of 2003, which mandates that every vehicle must have third-party insurance covering at least N1 million in liability. Non-compliance is punishable by a fine of N250,000, imprisonment for one year, or both.
This nationwide initiative underscores the importance of third-party insurance in protecting not just the vehicle owners but all road users against potential accidents and liabilities.