The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has directed law enforcement agencies across Nigeria to implement stringent measures ensuring vehicle owners comply with third-party insurance regulations. It is worth recalling that authorities had previously announced February 1 2025 as the official commencement date for the enforcement exercise.
The Lagos State Police Command, through its spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin, announced that all vehicle owners in the state must possess at least a valid third-party insurance policy. He urged uninsured vehicle owners to obtain the necessary coverage immediately, emphasizing that failure to comply would attract strict enforcement measures, including fines, penalties, or both. As reported by Channels Television
“This initiative aims to ensure that vehicle owners adhere to stipulated insurance requirements, protecting themselves and other road users,” Hundeyin stated. The Commissioner of Police for Lagos State, Olanrewaju Ishola, has instructed officers to conduct the enforcement exercise professionally, maintaining courtesy while remaining firm in executing their duties. He further warned that any form of incivility towards the public would not be tolerated.
Meanwhile, in Akwa Ibom State, Commissioner of Police Baba Azare led a monitoring team across Uyo metropolis and Ikot Ekpene to oversee compliance with the directive. Azare reiterated that possessing valid third-party insurance is a legal obligation under Section 68 of the Insurance Act of 2003.
“Today, we are monitoring the enforcement of third-party insurance compliance in Akwa Ibom State. So far, there is a high level of compliance due to the command’s sensitization efforts with stakeholders. However, vehicles of non-compliant owners will be impounded and held at police stations until they secure the required insurance. Those who refuse to comply will face prosecution,” Azare warned.
The enforcement exercise is set to continue across the 31 Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom until full compliance is achieved. The total number of impounded vehicles is yet to be compiled as operations are ongoing.
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Similarly, in Edo State, the Commissioner of Police, Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, reinforced the necessity of third-party insurance for all vehicle owners. The state’s Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, relayed a statement from the Commissioner urging motorists to update their vehicle insurance to avoid sanctions.
According to Section 68 of the Insurance Act of 2003, third-party insurance covers liabilities up to N1 million for damages to property, vehicles, or bodily injuries resulting from accidents. The Act further stipulates that non-compliance constitutes an offence punishable by a fine of N250,000, imprisonment for one year, or both.
With enforcement rolling out nationwide, authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring adherence to the law, promoting road safety, and holding defaulters accountable.
