…Lawyers Condemn Involvement of Police
….Defaulters May Pay N250,000 fine
By Niyi Jacobs
The nationwide enforcement of third-party motor insurance by the Nigeria Police Force has sparked mixed reactions, with some Nigerians supporting the move as a step toward road safety, while others see it as an avenue for harassment and extortion.
The directive, issued by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, took effect on February 1, leading to the impoundment of vehicles across the country. The enforcement aims to ensure compliance with Section 68 of the Insurance Act, which mandates third-party insurance for all motorists.
Supporters, including the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), argue that the move will protect road users and reduce financial burdens associated with accidents. “It is a positive step toward ensuring vehicle owners take responsibility for their actions,” an industry expert noted.
However, skepticism remains high. Some motorists fear the exercise will be used as an excuse for extortion, with reports already emerging of drivers being stopped at multiple checkpoints. “This is just another way for the police to harass people on the roads,” a commercial driver in Lagos lamented.
Legal experts have also weighed in on the debate. Ibadan-based lawyer Barrister Abiodun Amole questioned the legality of the enforcement, arguing that the Police Act does not grant officers the power to implement insurance policies. “Insurance is a contract between the insurer and the insured. It is not within the police’s jurisdiction to enforce such agreements,” he said.
The controversy highlights broader concerns about policy implementation in Nigeria. While compliance with insurance laws is essential, many Nigerians remain wary of how enforcement will be carried out and whether it will genuinely serve the public interest.
Section 68 of the Insurance Act of 2003 states that: “(1)No person shall use or cause or permit any other person to use a motor vehicle on a road unless a liability which he may thereby incur in respect of damage to the property of third parties is insured with an insurer registered under this Act.
“(2) The insurance taken out pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall cover liability of not less than N1 million.
“(3) The insurance under this section shall be in addition to the liabilities required to be insured under the Motor Vehicle (Third Party) Insurance Act, 1950, and shall be regulated mutatis mutandis by the provisions of the Act.
“(4) A person who contravenes the provisions of this section commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of N250,000 or imprisonment for one year or both”
