The Rivers State House of Assembly has summoned the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport and the Chief Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO) to appear before lawmakers over rising complaints of harassment and extortion of motorists by VIO personnel in the state.
The resolution followed a motion presented by Hon. Enemi George, representing Asari-Toru Constituency 2, who condemned what he described as the “excessive and unprofessional conduct” of VIO officers operating under the ministry.
George said the alleged actions of the officers were embarrassing and damaging to the image of the Rivers State Government. He warned that continued misconduct could erode public trust in the state’s transport regulatory system and potentially spark unrest if left unchecked.
Other lawmakers, including Hon. Wami Solomon Chile and Hon. Linda Somiari Stewart, also criticized the conduct of VIO personnel, expressing concern particularly over the harassment of women motorists.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, labelled the reported intimidation and extortion by VIO officers as unacceptable, stressing that the Assembly would not allow residents to suffer at the hands of those meant to enforce regulations.
The Speaker directed the House Committee on Transport to investigate the matter and report back during the next adjourned sitting scheduled for Thursday next week.
