The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has intensified efforts to ensure the smooth implementation of third-party vehicle insurance enforcement ahead of its February 1, 2025, commencement date. Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, convened a strategic meeting with key stakeholders on Monday, January 20, 2025, at the Command Headquarters, Ikot Akpan Abia.
The meeting aimed to foster collaboration and address concerns surrounding the directive issued by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, NPM. The directive mandates all vehicle owners to obtain valid third-party insurance as stipulated by Section 68 of the Insurance Act and Section 312 of the 1945 Motor Vehicle (Third Party Insurance) Act.
Among the attendees were representatives of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
In his remarks, CP Azare highlighted the importance of compliance, warning that vehicles without valid insurance would be impounded and only released upon the presentation of genuine documents. He also cautioned against the use of fake insurance, emphasizing that offenders would be required to disclose the source of such documents.
Flanked by his management team and area commanders, CP Azare urged the public to patronize credible insurance providers to avoid inconvenience and enhance road safety.
The FRSC Sector Commander echoed this sentiment, advising road users to ensure their insurance and other vehicle particulars are up-to-date to prevent embarrassment during enforcement.
The Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State IRS commended the proactive approach of the police, stressing the necessity of third-party insurance for all vehicle owners. He urged compliance before the grace period ends.
Similarly, RTEAN’s chairman pledged the union’s support for the enforcement exercise, while NUJ Chairman, Comrade Amos Etuk, lauded CP Azare’s vision and pledged the media’s role in raising awareness about the initiative.
NLC Chairman, Comrade Elder Sunny James, also praised the police for engaging stakeholders, calling on the public to renew their vehicle particulars promptly to avoid penalties.
The enforcement, set to begin across the state’s 31 Local Government Areas, underscores the command’s commitment to road safety and lawful compliance.
DSP Timfon John, the Police Public Relations Officer, reiterated the command’s resolve to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative.
