Rivers Assembly Condemns VIO Harassment
The Rivers State House of Assembly has condemned what it described as the rampant harassment and extortion of motorists by Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs) across Port Harcourt.
At its 33rd Legislative Sitting on Thursday, Hon. Enemi Alabo George (Asari-Toru Constituency 2) moved a motion drawing attention to the conduct of some VIO personnel, accusing them of using their statutory duties as a cover for intimidation and illegal levies. Several lawmakers echoed his concerns, noting that many of the victims were women.
Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule criticized the activities of the officers, describing them as “a menace to road users in Port Harcourt.” The House resolved to summon the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport and the Chief Vehicle Inspection Officer to explain the operations of VIOs on major roads.
In a separate development, the House considered the report of its Committee on Education on the vandalisation and looting of facilities at Township School 2, Port Harcourt. Presenting the findings, Committee Chairman Hon. Igwe Aforji said the condition of the school was “grim” and called on the government to declare a state of emergency in public primary and secondary schools.
The Speaker expressed concern over the decay observed at the school, questioning what the condition of schools in rural communities might be.
Similarly, the Assembly adopted the report of its Joint Committee on Environment and Urban Development on recent flash floods that affected parts of Port Harcourt. The House urged the state government to develop a comprehensive master plan that addresses population growth and current environmental challenges.
Speaking on the resolutions, Special Assistant on Media to the Speaker, Martins Wachukwu, said:
“The House has taken these decisions in the interest of the people of Rivers State. Lawmakers are committed to addressing issues affecting motorists, safeguarding public school infrastructure, and ensuring lasting solutions to environmental challenges such as flooding.”
