The Enugu State Government has commenced strict enforcement of a N500,000 fine against motorists caught driving against traffic as authorities intensify efforts to curb accidents and restore discipline on roads across the state.
The Enugu State Government has begun strict enforcement of a N500,000 penalty against motorists caught driving against traffic, popularly known as one-way driving, as part of renewed efforts to improve road safety and reduce fatalities across the state.
The State Commissioner for Transport, Dr Obi Ozor, disclosed this during an interview on Wednesday in Enugu, stating that the government would no longer tolerate reckless traffic violations endangering public safety.
According to Ozor, the enforcement drive follows significant investments by the government in road infrastructure, including the construction of dual carriageways, installation of medians, and improved traffic systems aimed at easing transportation within the state.
He lamented that despite these improvements, many motorists still deliberately violate traffic laws by driving against designated lanes.
The commissioner specifically identified areas such as Abakpa and the Penoks axis as major hotspots where drivers routinely engage in one-way driving despite visible road markings and traffic barriers.
Ozor stated that the enforcement would apply across all roads in the state, warning that violators would face immediate sanctions, including vehicle impoundment and payment of the prescribed fine.
He also revealed that offenders would undergo psychiatric evaluation to determine whether substance abuse or other mental health-related conditions contributed to their actions.
According to him, recommendations for rehabilitation could form part of the conditions for reclaiming impounded vehicles after payment of the fine.
The commissioner stressed that the policy was not introduced as a revenue-generating measure but as a necessary step to protect lives and reduce avoidable road accidents.
“Every day, we record accidents and carry bodies from roads that are in good condition. This is unacceptable,” Ozor said.
He urged motorists to exercise patience, obey traffic regulations, and avoid shortcuts that put lives at risk.
“One minute will not kill you. Waiting at traffic lights or taking the proper route will save your life and that of others,” he added.
Ozor further disclosed that the government had intensified public enlightenment campaigns through collaboration with transport unions and media organisations.
He said meetings had recently been held with taxi drivers, tricycle operators, bus drivers, tanker operators, and tipper associations to reinforce compliance with traffic laws.
The commissioner maintained that the state government remains committed to promoting safer roads and ensuring strict adherence to traffic regulations until motorists fully comply.
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